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Panel approves 3.7-foot front-yard setback variance for Ashton Village lot
Summary
Meeting attendees approved a reduced front-yard setback for Lot 4 in Ashton Village, allowing construction of a 2,700-square-foot single-family home despite an Alabama Power utility easement through the property.
Meeting attendees approved a 3.7-foot front-yard setback variance for Lot 4 in the Ashton Village subdivision, clearing the way for a builder to place a 2,700-square-foot single-family house closer to the street than the 30-foot front setback required by the R3 zoning.
Matt, a city staff member presenting the item, described the request as a response to a utility easement that runs through the rear of the lot: "The applicant here is requesting a variance to the front yard setback. They're proposing to build a 2,700 square foot, same family home on Lot 4," and he pointed to an Alabama Power line and an access easement that take up about the last 50 to 60 feet of the lot.
Doug Lee, representing Freedom Builders, identified himself at the public hearing and confirmed the builder will work with staff on siting if the variance was granted. No members of the public spoke in opposition during the hearing, and the staff recommendation to grant a 3.7-foot front-yard setback was accepted.
The panel made a voice motion to approve the variance; the motion was seconded and carried. After the vote the meeting record shows staff told the builder to coordinate next steps with city staff.
The variance affects only Lot 4 immediately; the presenter said Lot 5 is effectively unbuildable where the larger utility easement crosses the parcel and that other lots with easements either already accommodate the planned house without a variance or would be handled case by case if a similar issue arose.
