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Croton-on-Hudson, New York
⚖️ Zoning Board of Appeals

Zoning Board Grants Door Variance Amid Mount Airy Tree Removal Outcry

2026-01-20 · 3080 words · 12 speakers
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Key Actions & Decisions

  • **Resolutions Passed**
  • Variance from Village Zoning Code Section 230-41(G) for 43 Riverview Trail (Section 68.17 Block 2 Lot 11) to allow an accessory structure (cottage) with access observable from the street. Vote: 5-0 (Olcott, Goldsmith, Tuman, Weber, Lewis).
  • Approval of the December 16, 2025 meeting minutes. Vote: 5-0.
  • **Resolutions Failed**
  • None.
  • **Applications Reviewed**
  • **43 Riverview Trail (Rosanne MacDonald, owner; Norm Jansa, Westchester Modular Homes, representative):** The applicant returned for a second variance after receiving height and setback approvals in December 2025. The Engineering Department subsequently flagged that the front door on the street-facing façade required a separate variance. The applicant argued the restriction applied only to attached accessory apartments, not detached ADUs, and that relocating the door would be impractical due to topography, garbage receptacle mounds, and three large propane tanks. The Board found the variance was not substantial, would not alter the structure's approved scale or bulk, and that alternative door placement would be awkward and pose safety concerns near mechanical equipment. The Board also noted the difficulty was self-created.
  • **52 Mount Airy Road:** Adjourned to February 17, 2026, at the applicant's request submitted via email the afternoon of January 20. No action was taken.
  • **Public Comments**
  • No public comments were offered during the hearing for 43 Riverview Trail.
  • Multiple members of the public spoke regarding 52 Mount Airy Road, raising concerns about potential tree removal, permit requirements, construction activity prior to ZBA approval, and scheduling conflicts with school vacations. The Board clarified that no decisions would be made before a formal public hearing, that existing permits allow some unrelated construction, and that written comments can be submitted for the record.
  • **Reports**
  • Ron Wegner, Assistant Village Engineer, was present but no formal report was delivered (his department's feedback was incorporated into the 43 Riverview Trail application review).
  • Stacey Nachtler, Village Board Liaison, was present.

The Croton Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5-0 on January 20 to grant a variance allowing a street-facing entrance on a detached accessory cottage at 43 Riverview Trail. The application for 52 Mount Airy Road was adjourned to February 17 following a last-minute applicant request, drawing public questions about construction activity and future scheduling.

Topics
Mount Airy Road Subdivision
People
Norm Jansa (Representative for Westchester Modular Homes Construction Corp.) Will (IDEA Committee Member)