Sandra Murdock seeks access policy variance for land subdivision near Gilbert

Lexington County's Planning Commission meeting on April 17, 2025, spotlighted a significant variance request from local resident Sandra Murdock, who aims to subdivide her property to facilitate her daughter’s future home construction. Murdock, who owns approximately 4.5 acres on Neely Wingard Road, is seeking an exemption from the county's access policy, which restricts the use of an existing easement for multiple landlocked parcels.

Murdock's request stems from the need to legally separate a portion of her land for her daughter, who cannot secure a mortgage while the property remains tied to Murdock's existing home. In her letter to the commission, Murdock emphasized the extraordinary circumstances surrounding her situation, noting that the approval of this variance would not negatively impact neighboring properties or the community.

During the meeting, Murdock expressed her desire to keep her family close, especially as she ages. "It would be good for me to have a family member close in case I become unable to care for myself," she stated, highlighting the personal stakes involved in her request.

The commission discussed the implications of granting the variance, particularly regarding the existing easement that currently serves another landlocked parcel. Murdock's property is accessed via a 50-foot flag lot driveway, which has not been officially designated as a private road, complicating her request.

As the meeting progressed, the commission members engaged in a dialogue about the potential for Murdock to establish the driveway as a legally recognized private road, which could provide a more straightforward solution to her situation. However, Murdock indicated her preference for pursuing the variance instead.

The commission is expected to deliberate on Murdock's request in the coming weeks, with the outcome potentially paving the way for her daughter to build a home nearby, reinforcing family ties in the community. The decision will also reflect the county's approach to balancing development needs with existing regulations.