Site icon 06880

[OPINION] Compo Neighbors: Common Sense Needed For ADU Setback

Dan Woog

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have been embraced by many Westporters. 

But in neighborhoods with dense housing — like Compo Beach — there can be unintended consequences.

David Johnson and Holly Jaffe live near the beach. They sent this letter — signed by 17 neighbors — to “06880.”

On Monday (October 27), the Planning & Zoning Commission needs to review a zoning permit issued last Friday by the Zoning Board of Appeals. It allows for an ADU on a postage stamp lot in the Compo Beach area.

[NOTE FROM “06880”: This item is not on Monday’s P&Z agenda. The November 3 meeting has been canceled. The Building Department may soon issue a building permit, for work to begin.]

It claims to adhere to the new regulation that an ADU be set back 10 feet from the primary dwelling.

According to Westport regulations, there should be no obstruction in the setback. Stairs and other means of egress are allowed.

However, they may only be 20% of the setback. The stairs and compressor platforms intrude over 5 feet into the 10-foot setback.

That is over 50% of the setback.

The Norwalk Avenue home (top, 2nd from left), showing where the ADU would be situated. (Drone photo/John Videler)

Were this to be allowed it would set a disturbing precedent for the entire town, not only the densely populated Compo Beach area.

Setbacks in our town are there for reasons: To ensure public safety.

To preserve health and welfare

To maintain neighborhood character, by creating open space between buildings and property lines

These regulations help provide adequate light and air, prevent overcrowding, facilitate public services, and protect against fire and other dangers.

This particular 26-foot high ADU “tower” affects at least 7 houses on Norwalk Avenue. And 7 houses on Westport Avenue.

Stairs and air conditioning compressors in the setback. The ADU would be built in the grassy area. (Photo/David Johnson)

Eighteen neighbors have signed petitions against this zoning permit. More are coming.

We wholeheartedly believe in the intent of the new ADU legislation, to provide alternative housing options for a myriad of folks in town here.

Please don’t misunderstand. But it can’t be the Wild West. It’s got to be soberly and appropriately reviewed, using common sense.

We hope that in their last meeting prior to the election, the Planning & Zoning Commission will consider the unexpected impact of this regulation.

Is this what the commission intended?

Thank you.

Exit mobile version