Board of Adjustment approves variance for Hill property and prelim plats for Family Dentistry and Hatton subdivision

The Torrington City Council, convening as the Board of Adjustment Tuesday, approved three land-use items: a variance for an accessory structure at a private residence and preliminary plats for two subdivisions.

Variance — Daniel and Judy Hill: The board approved a request to allow an additional 168 square feet of metal carport on the Hill property, to store a larger motor home. Buildings and Grounds Superintendent Dennis Estes said the addition remains within fire-code distances and does not encroach on property lines; staff recommended approval. Councilman Victorin moved to approve the variance and Councilman Warren seconded; the board voted in favor with no recorded nays.

Preliminary plat — Family Dentistry, PC subdivision (Benchmark on behalf of B&B Land and Holding LLC/Dr. Marsh): The council approved a preliminary plat to divide a 1.51-acre parcel (the old Mike Barney property at 3418 West C Street) into two lots to accommodate a new roughly 4,500-square-foot dental clinic. Developer Dr. Marsh said the facility would expand services and eventually could support 13–15 employees; he and city staff discussed utility connections, including a waterline and a city annexation route tied to the final plat process. Councilman Deal moved and Councilman Victorin seconded; the preliminary plat passed on a voice vote.

Preliminary plat — Hatton Subdivision (Benchmark on behalf of Hatton family trust): The board approved a preliminary plat to subdivide approximately 2.03 acres into five or six lots. Staff noted existing utilities in the area but said a storm-sewer extension and drainage work remain to be coordinated with the city engineer. Bob Taylor of Benchmark described lot consolidation from older 25-foot lots into three buildable parcels on the south and two larger lots on the north. Councilman Victorin moved to approve; Councilman Kelly seconded; the motion passed.

In each case staff recommended approval and the council indicated the public hearings drew no opposition. The approvals advance each proposal to the next step: the final plat process for the subdivisions and implementation steps for the variance.