Zoning Board of Appeals Grants Two Variance Requests

The Effingham City Zoning Board of Appeals has granted a variance in building setbacks so a home destroyed by fire can be rebuilt.

Victoria Storm petitioned for the variance so the home can be replaced at 1000 St. Anthony Avenue. 

The variance will allow the new home to face Oak Street rather than St. Anthony. The buildable width will be reduced to 29 feet from the required 32 feet. There were also changes allowed to the west and north side yards and the east front yard.

The Board of Appeals also granted a variance in the allowable height for an extended stay hotel to be built by Effingham Hospitality Partners. The facility at 1201 North Raney will be similar in height to neighboring properties. It'll be a four-story structure consisting of 97 guest rooms.

The Board also discussed a plan commissioner training session that could be held for Zoning Board and Plan Commission members. The session is expected to be discussed further before a decision on whether to schedule the session is scheduled.