The Burholme Civic Association last week voted 18-1 to approve a variance to legalize a rear deck at 7120 Montour St.
The owners have lived there for 15 years, and the deck was built about a year ago. The deck does not have the proper size and dimensions, thus the need for a variance.
The owners presented signatures of support from neighbors, and the next-door neighbor told the civic that she did not have a problem with the deck.
A Zoning Board of Adjustment hearing is set for Jan. 18.
In other news from the Dec. 8 meeting, the civic association continues to await the next move as it pertains to a proposed 52-unit apartment complex at 7248 Rising Sun Ave., site of a former Citizens Bank. The group opposes the plan, citing parking and traffic issues, and has appealed the decision by the Department of Licenses and Inspections to give the developer permits. One possible compromise is for fewer units, with some parking. The civic is represented by attorney Harry Cook and is hoping for support from newly elected City Councilman Anthony Phillips.
A resident complained of trucks parking in the former Pathmark lot at 840 Cottman Ave. The supermarket closed in 2015. An independent discount supermarket opened in 2018, but flopped.
Burholme Civic Association will meet again on Thursday, Jan. 12, at 7 p.m. at United Methodist Church of the Redeemer, 1128 Cottman Ave. ••
