County approves conditional use permits for manure storage and several nonfarm dwellings

The Houston County Board of Commissioners voted to grant several conditional use permits (CUPs) on land-use items, including approval for a manure storage structure with a capacity greater than 20,000 gallons and multiple nonfarm dwellings on parcels smaller than 40 acres in Agricultural Protection Districts.

Planning staff explained the manure storage CUP had been delayed while adjacent variances were resolved; the variance process concluded in late May and the applicant, identified in the packet as Bob Ellens, proceeded with the CUP request for the liquid manure storage structure in Caledonia Township. A commissioner moved to approve the CUP and the board approved it by voice vote.

The board also reviewed nonfarm dwelling CUPs in Spring Grove Township and Money Creek Township. Planning staff said one dwelling proposed a 650-square-foot structure classed as a dwelling because it will have electricity and exceed 400 square feet; staff confirmed nonfarm dwellings are a conditional use in the agricultural district and that notice and neighbor letters had been sent. One neighbor submitted a letter and attended to ask questions; planning staff said most concerns were addressed after review of the packet.

Another case arose where a dwelling had been permitted while the parcel was larger than 40 acres and then split shortly after; staff required the property owner to obtain a CUP to bring the parcel into compliance before issuing permits for accessory work such as a garage. Staff confirmed administrative review of driveway approaches, electrical and building permit compliance would follow CUP approval.

All CUP motions were made, seconded and approved by voice votes. Planning staff noted that approvals do not replace subsequent administrative reviews required for building permits and township approach approvals.