Highland Park Zoning Board Meeting - 6/22/2026

The Highland Park Zoning Board held a meeting on June 22, 2026, primarily to consider application Z2602, which involved a request for interpretation of the zoning ordinance definition of an accessory building or use. The case centered on whether a pool room addition to a residence at 324 North Fifth Avenue should be classified as an accessory structure, impacting compliance with zoning regulations. The applicants, represented by legal counsel and an expert architect, argued that the pool room was integrated into the main house and not a detached accessory structure, citing continuous building envelope and shared utilities. Neighbors objected, contending the structure was oversized and intrusive, and referenced a court-issued temporary restraining order classifying the pool room as an accessory structure. The board heard extensive testimony from both sides, reviewed architectural plans and zoning definitions, and discussed the legal and practical implications. Ultimately, the board voted unanimously to interpret the pool room as part of the principal structure rather than an accessory building. The meeting also included procedural matters such as approval of prior meeting minutes and discussion of upcoming rule changes for application procedures, which were deferred to a future meeting for vote.