Marietta Historic Preservation Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting - August 31, 2026

The meeting consisted of two separate board sessions: the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) and the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). The HPC approved an extensive renovation application for a historic home at 226 North Forest after lengthy discussion on materials and design. The BZA heard five variance cases, approving one, denying two, denying one due to no-show, and tabling one to allow the applicant to explore alternatives.

Consent Calendar

• HPC: Minutes from the previous meeting were approved by motion and second, with a quorum of four members confirmed.
• BZA: Minutes from the previous meeting were approved by motion and second.

Historic Preservation Commission – Discussion & Key Outcomes

• 226 North Forest (Applicant: Caleb): Caleb requested to replace previously approved lap siding with shingles (Hardy shingles), remove stucco from foundation and limewash the exposed brick, replace and add windows to create symmetry (two picture windows, two arched windows, and a central operable window), install a new garage door (Door Vision model 2550), black gutters and downspouts, extend the front porch by removing a wall and adding steps, and install tile resembling brick on porch, steps, and walkway to the driveway. Commissioners expressed frustration with a moving target but worked to clarify each element. Specific requirements included: all windows must have true divided light (external grids, not internal grids), grid pattern must be consistent with neighborhood (prairie or colonial style allowed), and the walkway tile must resemble brick as shown in the reference photo. The motion was passed unanimously (5-0).

Board of Zoning Appeals – Case Summaries

• V2026-27 (850 Industrial Park Drive – WLM Contracting): Variance to reduce side yard setback from 20 feet to 3 feet to expand a warehouse. No applicant appeared. The fire marshal indicated the 3-foot setback would not be permitted. Motion to deny passed 4-2.
• V2026-29 (1405 O&B Drive – Hayes Brewer, Oakley Real Estate Partners): Variance to allow gravel as an acceptable parking surface. The applicant added gravel without permits after buying the property, citing cost and tenant needs (heavy industrial). Commissioners noted the trend against gravel and the lack of exceptional circumstances. Motion to deny passed unanimously.
• V2026-30 (138 Powers Ferry Road – John Swinney & Shenaz Sawani): Variance to allow an existing porch (built without permit) to encroach 3.3 feet into a 15-foot side setback (instead of the allowed 7.5 feet). Additionally, the property was cited for an unpermitted tree removal business in the rear. The city recommended denial. Commissioners denied the variance unanimously; the applicant can cut the porch back 4 feet 2 inches to become compliant without further HPC approval.
• V2026-31 (1204 Brandle Drive – Ignacio Mendoza): Variance to reduce side and rear setbacks for an 18x20 foot shed from 10 feet to 4 feet. The applicant wanted to preserve yard space for children. Commissioners suggested alternative locations that might not require a variance. Motion to table (with waived re-advertising fee) passed, allowing the applicant to consult his builder and return without a 12-month waiting period.
• V2026-33 (749 South Marietta Parkway – Noreen Lalani & Rohel Hara): Three variances: (1) increase rear setback encroachment from 35 feet to 11 feet to expand a non-conforming convenience store, (2) allow parking at the fuel pumps to count toward required parking, and (3) related to expansion. The addition is 4,000 square feet for two retail spaces (one likely restaurant with limited seating). Commissioners accepted the pump-parking rationale and found no detriment. Motion to approve all three variances passed unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were offered for any case; all public testimony was from the applicants themselves and their representatives.