BZA approves use variance to allow two residences on one parcel at Old Moore Road

The Morgan County Board of Zoning Appeals on July 28 approved a use variance to allow two primary residences on a single parcel at 463 and 465 Old Moore Road in Green Township, finding the replacement of an aging manufactured home with a new unit will not substantially harm neighboring properties.

Michael J. Ratcliffe, speaking for petitioner Ray Ann Ratcliffe and the Emile Family Revocable Living Trust, told the board both homes have been on the parcel since 1991 and 1998 and that the later unit will be removed and replaced in approximately the same location. "We currently have two homes on our property," Ratcliffe said. "The new house will be located in the same place."

The application materials state the proposed replacement structure would be roughly the same size as the existing unit (the applicant estimated about 2,200 square feet) and that the back of the property is heavily wooded with steep ravines, limiting relocation options. Planning staff recommended approval, noting the Board of Health must determine the existing septic system is adequate for the proposed dwelling before permits are finalized.

There were no public objections or interested parties who signed in opposition. A motion to approve the petition carried on a voice vote; the board did not record a roll-call tally in the meeting minutes. Board members advised the petitioner to coordinate with the health department on septic verification before proceeding with demolition and replacement.

The petitioner said demolition of the existing unit would likely take two to three days and removal of bulk materials would occur within about two weeks. The board approved the use variance at the July 28 meeting.