The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) meeting held on September 16, 2025, in Caroline County, Maryland, focused on a significant variance request from local resident Barry G. Church. The meeting, chaired by Karen Hardy, included key members such as new BZA attorney Jesse Hammock and development review director Matt Kaczynski.

The primary agenda item was Church's application for a variance to construct a 20 by 16-foot bedroom addition to his home located at 13644 Greensboro Road. This addition would encroach upon the required 30-foot front yard setback, a critical zoning regulation aimed at maintaining space between structures and roadways. The property, originally part of a subdivision recorded in 1950, is classified as non-conforming due to its size—just under 17,000 square feet, which falls short of the 20,000 square feet minimum for the R-1 zoning district.

During the meeting, Kaczynski explained that the existing home, built in 1944, currently meets the minimum yard setbacks. However, the proposed addition's placement is limited due to the lot's configuration and the proximity of a sewage reserve area. This situation complicates compliance with zoning laws, as there are few viable locations for the addition.

The board's deliberation process aims to reach a decision on the variance request during the same meeting, although continuances may be granted if necessary. The absence of public proponents or opponents during the hearing suggests a lack of community contention regarding the proposal, which may facilitate a smoother decision-making process.

As the BZA continues to navigate the complexities of zoning regulations and community needs, this case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by homeowners in adapting their properties within established zoning frameworks. The outcome of this variance request will not only affect Church's home but also set a precedent for similar applications in the future, reflecting the balance between individual property rights and community planning standards.