BSA accepts Buildings’ zoning interpretation of minimum lot area requirement. The Staten Island Borough Commissioner rescinded a stop-work order and approved construction of two, two-story single-family homes on one zoning lot in the Prince’s Bay section of the borough. A civic association in opposition appealed the approval to BSA.

At the BSA hearings, the civic association argued that the project did not meet the 3,800-square-foot minimum lot area requirement set in the City’s zoning code. The developer, Joseph Galante, had proposed two homes on one 7,500-squarefoot zoning lot. The association claimed that both homes needed a 3,800-square-foot area and Galante was 100 sq. ft. short. The association based its argument on the text of the Special South Richmond Development District, which stated that “all residences” must meet the minimum lot area requirements. This position was supported by Council Member Andrew J. Lanza, Staten Island Borough President James Molinaro and Community Board 3. (more…)