Town of Normal Zoning Board of Appeals met Jan. 15.
Here are the minutes provided by the board:
Members Present:
Ms. Brand, Mr. Haywood, Mr. Coates, Mr. Palmgren, Mr. Queen, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Moyer
Members Absent:
None
Others Present:
Planner I Tessa Ferraro, Inspections and Planning Office Associate Hannah Neal, Deputy Corporation Council Steven Simmons
Call to Order:
Mr. Anderson noted that a quorum was present and called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM. Approval of Minutes:
Mr. Haywood moved to approve the minutes from December 18, 2025, and Ms. Brand seconded. Public Hearing:
a. 26-1-1-V: Proposed side yard setback variance, 305 Gregory
Ms. Ferraro reviewed the staff report. 305 Gregory is a 1 ½ story bungalow located in the Old North Normal Historical District. The home has cedar shake siding, an enclosed porch and a detached garage which is believed to have been built during the 1940’s or 50’s. The garage was built without frost protection and therefore is sinking into the ground. The homeowners have contacted contractors to try and restore the garage, but they have not been able to find someone willing to do the work. The property is zoned as R-1A and is surrounded by R-1A. The demolition and new design would have to be approved by the Historic Preservation Commission in order to move forward.
The garage currently sits 3 feet from the property line but needs to be 5 ft away from the property line per code. The homeowner is requesting to maintain the 3 ft setback for the new garage. The setback has been at 3 ft for many years with no issues. Due to the narrowness of the driveway, the current placement of the garage is the most practical. The proposed size of the new garage would be 24×24 feet and would expand to the east as well as further back. Overall, Staff would recommend approval with the condition that the Historical Preservation Commission approves the new design.
Mr. Anderson opened public portion of the meeting. However, there was no one from the public that wished to speak to the variance, so the public portion of the meeting was closed.
Mr. Anderson commented that he has a similar situation on his lot.
With no questions from the Board, Mr. Anderson called for a motion.
Mr. Queen moved to approve the findings and recommendations as proposed by Staff. Ms. Brand Seconded.
Mr. Anderson called for a vote.
All in favor: 7
Opposed: none
The variance was conditionally approved.
With no further business, the meeting adjourned at 5:08 PM
 https://www.normalil.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/5508
