Planning commission approves variance allowing two parcels under 40 acres in agricultural zone for Hanson family

The Williams County Planning and Zoning Commission approved a variance allowing two newly created lots to remain in the Agricultural Zoning District despite being smaller than the county’s 40‑acre minimum.

The decision applies to a minor subdivision submitted by Ed Rintamaki on behalf of Don and Jason Hanson. The parent parcel is approximately 49.98 acres; the proposed lots were described as approximately 31.07 acres and 18.91 acres. The variance allows those lots to be recorded in the agricultural district rather than requiring a zone change to rural residential.

Mont Township’s board provided mixed comments: staff said the township was undecided and later noted it did not recommend approval, expressing concern about removing 40 acres from agricultural production. Jason Hanson told the commission his family already has a home on the 18.91‑acre parcel and that his son plans to buy 20 acres for a house. Hanson said he had discussed the reduced lot scheme with township members before reducing an earlier four‑lot proposal to two lots.

Commissioners debated the county’s 40‑acre minimum and how repeated approvals of smaller parcels affect the agricultural district. Votes were split during the first roll call, producing a tie; after further discussion and a follow‑up motion, the variance was approved by roll call.

The minor subdivision and plat recordation will be contingent on the variance approval and completion of standard county department reviews. Access for the smaller lot was described as from 50 Sixth Street Northwest; the larger lot takes access from 140 Fifth Avenue Northwest (County Road 1). Staff noted the subdivision will be recorded as MS‑25‑0011 and MS‑25‑0012 if all conditions are met.

The commission’s approval does not change the township’s comments; it grants a local land‑use exception for this parcel only.