The Geneva Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously Oct. 9 to recommend approval of a variance allowing the homeowner at 514 Maple Lane to reduce the East Street yard setback from 30.91 feet to 26 feet so a front porch may be added. The commission’s recommendation will be considered by the Geneva City Council at its meeting on Monday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m.

The request, filed by homeowner Sarah Rosenberg on Sept. 8, 2025, asked for a reduction in the required setback under Section 11-5C-4 (lot and area requirements). City planner Matt Busing presented the staff report and materials, including a plat of survey, project narrative, a response to the variation standards, and published notice to property owners within 500 feet. Busing told the commission that the proposal “does meet all the variation standards,” noting staff’s finding on reasonable return, practical difficulty, character of the area and minimum variation.

Homeowner Sarah Rosenberg described the proposal as “a simple request” to add a covered front porch large enough for outdoor furniture and a winter walkway between the driveway and front door. The applicant said the design intends to match the character of neighboring houses and improve curb appeal.

Commissioner Tim Moran supported the request, saying the porches are “lovely additions” and “they really add a lot to the neighborhood.” After public testimony closed with no members of the public speaking, Moran moved to approve the variance subject to the findings of fact in the staff report; Commissioner Mim Evans seconded the motion. The commission recorded a unanimous vote in favor and recommended approval to the City Council.

The staff packet for the hearing included a prior street-setback variation approval for 520 Maple Lane (dated Aug. 9, 2017) and plats for neighboring lots (508 Maple Lane). As noted in the staff materials, the 30.91-foot figure is the average street-yard setback of neighboring properties used to calculate the required setback in this zoning district.

If the City Council approves the variance on Oct. 20, Rosenberg may proceed with permitting and construction consistent with the approved plans and any conditions adopted by council. The staff report that formed the basis of the commission’s findings is dated Oct. 9, 2025.