Township Zoning Board Members Approve Residents' Variance Request

Members of the Washington Township Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a request for a pair of variances on the part of Jennifer and Ronald Cenicola of Colonial Boulevard Tuesday night at the regularly scheduled meeting. 

Licensed architect Joseph J. Bruno presented the plans for a renovation of the couple’s Cape Cod style home. He explained that in order to accommodate their growing family, the Cenicolas wanted to expand their home to include a second floor featuring multiple bedrooms and a playroom for their children, and to add a two-car garage.

The reason for the variance request was twofold; the plan would extend their home to be two feet larger than the allowed coverage for the size of lot they owned and rather than the standard 25-foot height, the gables would end at 27 feet so that, as Bruno explained, the house “does not look squat.” He also said that the grading of the property was such that it would effect the appearance of the home.

Board member Laura Merkle wanted to know why they did not just expand into their finished basement. Bruno explained that the ceilings were only 6'10", below standards for optimum usage. She also questioned the need to grant a two foot variance to the height ordinance.

Vice Chairman Richard Miras said he felt that this plan was well in line with keeping up the overall aesthetic of the neighborhood, and that the architectural design would make for an attractive house. A motion to approve both variances was made, and was approved by a vote of 5 to 2. 

A formal resolution will be given at the next meeting, April 12, which will present any opportunity for appeal.

The Zoning Board also swore in two new members Tuesday night. Board Attorney Donna J. Baboulis administered the oath of office to Rick Sonntag and new alternate board member Glenn Gerhard.