Bruce Hill council approves variances for Cypress Falls, accepts subdivision utilities; roads to remain private

The Bruce Hill City Council on Feb. 11, 2025 approved variance requests for the Cypress Falls Subdivision that reduce certain utility easements and front-yard setbacks and adopted Resolution 826-25 accepting water and sewer infrastructure and other acts of dedication, while the subdivision—s roads and drainage remain private.

The variances approved reduce a 20-foot front building setback to 15 feet on irregular lots including Lots 32 and 36, and reduce a standard 15-foot utility easement to 10 feet along several lots adjacent to the entry drive and in side-loaded lots (including Lots 34 and 35), according to materials presented to the council. Tradd Trujall, an engineer on the project with Hinskins Trujall, told the council that the reduced front setback for Lot 36 is requested because the lot is cut at an angle and that "the car will still fit completely in the driveway, in front of the house." He said the adjustment gives builders more flexibility on irregular lots.

Walter, a city staff member who reported on the subdivision requests, said the city has reviewed the plans and is "fine with" the easement and setback changes as presented. Gerald, the city attorney, told the council that staff completed a walk-through and that "the roads and drainage are gonna remain private. Water and sewer will be maintained by the city," and that water lines had been tested and the subdivision—s lift station had been started up.

City staff said the easement reduction was requested in locations where no city utilities are currently located and that restoring a 15-foot servitude in other sections (beyond Lots 34—36 and 37) will remain the plan. The council voted to approve the variance requests and later voted to adopt Resolution 826-25, accepting the subdivision—s acts of dedication for water and sewer infrastructure; both actions passed with all recorded voting positions in favor.

The decisions clear the way for the developer to proceed with building plans that use the smaller easement and reduced setbacks on the specified lots, while the city will operate and maintain the accepted water and sewer systems. The council record shows the roads will remain private and will not be accepted for city maintenance.

Votes at a glance: the motion to approve the variance requests — approved (unanimous vote by voting positions recorded as District 1—6 and At-Large); Resolution 826-25 accepting acts of dedication for Cypress Falls Subdivision — approved (unanimous vote by voting positions recorded as District 1—6 and At-Large).