Town Council debates 25% fence opening variance for police safety in residential area

The Solon City Council convened on January 21, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including a proposed variance for a residential fence. The meeting highlighted the importance of safety regulations concerning fencing in residential areas.

The primary focus of the discussion was a variance request from a resident, Ms. McGowan, who sought to install a fence along the north side of her property. The proposed fence would not comply with the existing zoning code, which mandates a 25% aggregate opening for visibility. This requirement is intended to ensure that police and fire departments can maintain safety by being able to see through fences to check for any potential hazards or individuals hiding behind them.

Council members emphasized that the visibility provided by the fence design is crucial for the safety of both residents and emergency responders. Ms. McGowan argued that the cost of a board-on-board fence, which would meet the visibility requirement, was prohibitive compared to a solid stockade fence. She expressed her belief that the rural nature of the area would not pose a safety risk if the fence were installed as she proposed.

Further discussions clarified that the fence would be set back from the street, maintaining visibility for drivers and pedestrians. The council considered the implications of the variance, weighing the resident's financial concerns against the established safety protocols.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of adhering to safety regulations while also considering the unique circumstances of individual property owners. The council plans to further evaluate the variance request in light of these discussions, ensuring that both community safety and resident needs are addressed.