A variance to extend a driveway at 605 Memorial Drive was approved last week by the Macomb Zoning Board of Appeals.
City regulations require at least three feet between properties, but tenant Helen Haviland told the board that she has received permission from her neighbor to put her driveway extension next to that property.
Haviland said she has two vehicles, one of them a pickup truck with a trailer.
Property owner Kenneth Ray said he feels it's a matter of public safety to have the driveway extended to accommodate one of the vehicles. 'Vehicles parked in the street make it difficult for walkers and for children playing ,' he said.
Community Development Director Miranda Lambert said she has received no objections from any neighbors to waive the city setback requirement.
Board member Tina Belz moved for approval of the variance. 'It's the only way to expand the driveway,' she said, 'and the neighbor does not object.'
Lambert said Haviland must appear before the Macomb Planning Commission this week for approval of a special use permit for the expanded driveway. If the planning commission recommends the special use, final approval would be up to the Macomb City Council.
