**CLAY** — The local Veterans of Foreign Wars post is one step closer to adding a new outdoor pavilion after receiving unanimous support from the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals on Monday, Jan. 12. The Board voted 5-0 to approve two area variances for the VFW located at 5366 Caughdenoy Road. The approvals allow the organization to move forward with a pavilion in a vacant grass area, despite zoning codes regarding setbacks and parking. The project required relief from Section 230-13A(4) for lot and structure dimensional requirements, reducing the front yard setback from the required 100 feet to 78 feet. It also required a reduction in parking spaces from the mandated 54 spaces down to 35, as per Section 230-21 E. Tim Coyer, representing the VFW through Ianuzi & Romans PC, told the Board that the new pavilion is intended for daytime use during nice weather, while the existing indoor building is used primarily for evening meetings. He noted that on a typical meeting night, attendance ranges from 10 to 15 people, rising to 18 or 20 on busy nights. Regarding the reduced parking, Coyer argued that the existing building and the new pavilion would not be used simultaneously, mitigating the need for the full compliment of spaces required by code. During the public hearing, Deputy Chairperson Karen Liebi inquired about the VFW’s membership health, a relevant factor for long-term land use. The applicant responded that the post currently has 38 members, with about a third under the age of 40, indicating continued interest in the organization. A resident, Janet Rathburn of Freestone Road, asked specifically about live music. The applicant clarified that they are not anticipating hosting live bands and intend the space for picnic-style events for members only, not for public rental. Planning & Development Commissioner Brian Bender noted there were no letters of concern from neighbors and voiced support for the plan. The Onondaga County Planning Board took no position on the application. The variances were granted with the condition the project remain in "substantial compliance" with Exhibit "A" submitted by the applicant. **Shed Replacement Approved** In other business, the Board granted an area variance to William and Sahra Webb of 5225 Cremona Trail. The homeowners sought permission to replace an existing shed with a 10-by-16-foot structure. The variance was necessary to reduce the side yard setback from the required 7.5 feet to 2.5 feet. The applicant noted that an existing shed is already situated on the property. Mr. Webb assured the Board that the new structure would not have electricity, and Commissioner Bender reminded the homeowner that a building permit would be required following the variance approval. The Board voted 5-0 to approve the request. **Organizational Business** The meeting began with the Board’s organizational session for the year. Chairperson Vivian Mason presided over the adoption of the 2026 scheduling calendar and the formalization of meeting procedures. The Board unanimously approved a motion to set the second Monday of each month as the regular meeting date. They also acknowledged the appointment of Robert Germain as the attorney for the Zoning Board of Appeals and accepted the designation of Karen Liebi as Deputy Chairperson. All actions during the meeting were determined to be Type II under the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR), receiving a negative declaration. The meeting adjourned at 6:17 p.m.