By JIMMY LAWTON

OGDENSBURG -- An Ogdensburg man wants to see the city change its setback ordinances after finding he couldn’t place a shed on a shared property line despite having his neighbor’s permission.

Christopher Lalone of 1228 Pickering Street went before the board Monday, in hopes of convincing the board to ease its setback restrictions.

Lalone is a disabled veteran who serves as an alternate on the city’s zoning board of appeals. He said that he and his neighbor planned to share a storage shed to be located on their joined property line. However, city zoning laws restrict such placement.

Lalone said he understands why the city has such restrictions, but said that when two neighbors agree to share space, common sense should come into play. Lalonde said if he were to follow the city’s zoning setbacks his shed would be placed in the center of his backyard, taking away valuable space for his grandchildren to play.

Councilor Daniel Skamperle question if the set back was set by the state or locally. Smith said setbacks are set locally and could potentially be modified.

Deputy Mayor Michael Morley was receptive of Lalonde’s requests, but after hearing from City Planner Andrea Smith, he suggested Lalone submit a building permit and file for a variance with the zoning board of appeals.

Morley pointed out that many people have trouble storing equipment, recreational vehicles and other items in the compact lots, but also noted that the process regarding zoning changes exists for a reason.

Smith said Lalone had not submitted either to date, though Lalone said he was in the process of filing both.

Smith also pointed out that variances stay with the property, regardless of an owner. Meaning if a variance were granted, it would continue to be allowed even if the owners changed.

Morley said suggested Lalone work through the proper channels and advised him to reach out to the council if the variance is denied.