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Augusta BZA approves smaller front setback for proposed Jiffy Lube at 712 East Robinson Avenue; one member recuses
Summary
The Board approved a reduction of the Chase Creek Drive front setback from 30 to 21 feet for a proposed three‑bay Jiffy Lube at 712 East Robinson Avenue, approving staff‑recommended conditions; one board member recused for a conflict of interest.
The Augusta‑Richmond County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance to reduce the front yard setback off Chase Creek Drive from 30 feet to 21 feet for a proposed oil‑change business at 712 East Robinson Avenue, the board said.
Ashley Catterton, Development Services administrator, told the board the corner commercial lot is roughly 0.83 acres and a corner lot with two front yards. “The requested front yard setback of 21 feet would be an approximate 30% reduction,” Catterton said in the staff presentation, which also noted the proposed building would meet the 30‑foot setback on East Robinson Avenue but could not meet it along Chase Creek Drive.
Jonathan Aceves, representing the developer Terraform Development and Maybaum Commercial, told the board the proposal is for a three‑bay Jiffy Lube franchise. “So I think they've done their best to try to accommodate the narrow site. So we're asking for a variance 9 feet there to permit cars to circulate through the building,” Aceves said.
One board member announced a recusal at the start of the discussion, stating, “I am going to recuse myself on this. I am an employee. I work with Maybaum along with Jonathan.” The recusal was recorded before the board voted.
Plan and Development staff recommended denial under the variance criteria in Section 33 of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance but also offered conditions the board could attach in the event of approval, including allowing the 21‑foot front yard setback off Chase Creek Drive.
A motion to approve the applicant's request subject to staff conditions was made and seconded. The chair called for a show of hands; the motion carried with the recusal noted. The chair said an approval letter would be mailed to the applicant.
No in‑person opponents appeared and staff reported only an inquiry had been received about the application prior to the hearing.
Votes at a glance: Motion to approve variance for BZA‑25‑29 (Grovetown Center LLC / 712 East Robinson Avenue) — approved with condition to allow 21‑foot front yard setback off Chase Creek Drive; one board member recused.
