The Prince George Board of Appeals convened on June 18, 2025, to discuss a variance request concerning a residential property impacted by a fire. The meeting focused on the case presented by Mr. Rivera, who acquired the property in 2024, with plans to reconstruct a single-family home on an existing concrete block foundation dating back to the 1950s.

The primary agenda item was the request for variances related to front and rear setbacks. Mr. Rivera's proposal included a 12-foot variance from the front setback to accommodate a 1.8-foot encroachment of the foundation and an 11.6-foot projection for stairs and a covered porch. Additionally, a 3.6-foot variance was sought for the rear setback to allow for a portion of the existing foundation.

The property was described as having unique characteristics, including irregular shape, shallowness, and sloping topography, which contributed to the need for these variances. The original home was destroyed by fire around 2013-2014, but the concrete foundation remained intact and was verified for reuse by structural engineers. Mr. Rivera emphasized that the variances requested were the minimum necessary to retain the home's footprint and allow for a small covered porch, which would provide weather protection for the entryway.

The discussion highlighted that the property is distinct from surrounding lots, being the most shallow and the only one affected by the fire. Mr. Rivera argued that the variances would not impair the use and enjoyment of adjacent properties and would align with the established building line for the area. The architectural features proposed, including the porch and stairs, were deemed consistent with neighborhood aesthetics.

The meeting concluded with Mr. Rivera's assertion that the variances would not substantially impair the 2035 general plan or the 2010 approved subregion master plan. Further elaboration on these points was anticipated from other witnesses present at the meeting. The Board of Appeals will consider the request and its implications for the neighborhood in their upcoming deliberations.