Board to Vote on Easing Restrictions on Detached Garages

This story was posted by Pam Robinson. It was written by Leah Bush.

Councilman Gene Cook's proposed legislation easing restrictions on detached garages is set go before the Town Board for a vote on Tuesday.

The legislation would allow for finished garages with heat and a water supply. Cook said his intent is to allow hobbyists to work in a conditioned environment and reduce stress to homeowners by streamlining the town code.

Though Cook's legislation specifically prohibits the use of a finished garage as a habitable space, opponents warn that it may present a slippery slope.

"For many years we've seen converted secondary or accessory structures that essentially become second residences," said Chris Modelewski, chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals. "That's the sort of thing that could change the character of a neighborhood."

Residents can obtain variances through the existing appeals process, Modelewski added, though they are given out sparingly. The appeals process includes a public hearing.

Cook, a car enthusiast, was issued a stop work order by the town building department in 2012 for not filing the proper paperwork while building a three-car detached garage at his home. The order was subsequently lifted.

He denies that the proposed legislation is in his personal interest.