Board rejects short term rental permit for Chad Walker's PDR property

A contentious debate unfolded at the Lexington Board of Adjustment meeting on June 9, 2025, as members grappled with a request for a conditional use permit for a hosted short-term rental on a property encumbered by a Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) easement. The discussion highlighted the complexities of balancing property rights with land preservation efforts.

The board faced a pivotal decision regarding Chad Walker's application for a short-term rental in an agricultural zone. While some members expressed enthusiasm for the potential of the property, concerns were raised about the implications of granting permission under the existing PDR easement, which prohibits such uses unless explicitly allowed by the Rural Land Management Board. One board member emphasized the need for a definitive decision rather than prolonging the discussion, stating, "I just don't want to kick this can down the road."

Despite the staff's recommendation for approval, the board ultimately voted against the motion, citing the legal constraints imposed by the PDR. The discussion revealed a divide among members, with some advocating for the applicant's rights while others prioritized adherence to land preservation regulations. One member articulated the frustration of seeing neighboring properties potentially circumventing these regulations, stating, "Something wrong with that."

As the meeting progressed, the board acknowledged the possibility of the applicant appealing the decision, although the legal pathways remained unclear. The outcome of this meeting underscores the ongoing tension between development interests and conservation efforts in Lexington, leaving stakeholders to ponder the future of land use in the region.