Changes OKed for KC Hall
Patrick Fisher, Staff Writer
At its Monday, May 5, meeting the New Prague City Council unanimously approved changes for the Knights of Columbus Hall.
The KC Hall's board of directors was making two requests for the building at 411 Fourth Ave SW (Highway 13/21) in New Prague. The first was a preliminary and final plat for the property, and the second was for an addition to the front of the structure. Since the two requests were related, the plat had to be approved so a building permit could be obtained for the addition.
The area was originally not platted, but measured in a metes-and-bounds legal description. The property is 57,277 square feet and meets most setback requirements. The hall does encroach into the 40-foot front setback by about 18 feet.
The addition would be an eight-foot by 12-foot vestibule on the front of the structure, built around the front doors that face the west. The doors to the vestibule would face the south and provide a double- door system, giving the area wind cover and helping to prevent heat loss. The addition would also provide handicap access to the building.
Ken Ondich, acting planning director, noted the vestibule would make the structure encroach even more into the front setback. He pointed out the New Prague Planning and Zoning Commission felt the vestibule was an economic, feasible solution as kitchen space and a restroom currently take up most of the southwest side of the building.
Since the vestibule was located in the front setback, a variance was also needed, which the council unanimously approved.