Monticello council approves variance to reduce front-yard width at 1056 South Market Street

The Monticello City Council approved Ordinance 20-25-10, granting a variance to reduce the minimum front-yard width at 1056 South Market Street from 65 feet to 35 feet during its meeting. The applicant is Heath Properties, and the parcel will remain zoned business.

The variance was sought so the applicant could determine whether the lot could be subdivided into a flag lot and allow back access that is subject to an existing easement. Jim, a city staff member, summarized the request: "It's an ordinance granting a variance to the front yard width at 1056 South Market Street" and said the reduction was needed so the owner could determine whether they "can even create a flag lot." He added that the change would "allow that back access that already has an easement over it."

The Planning and Zoning Board reviewed the application and "unanimously recommended granting the variance," according to Jim, and the city published a required public notice in the Pike County Journal Republican as required by state statute. Council members approved the ordinance by roll-call vote with all members present voting yes.

The council record shows the parcel will remain in business zoning and that staff presented supporting documents including the PZB motion and a vicinity map. No members of the public spoke on the item during the meeting. The ordinance passed with no amendments identified in the meeting record.

Council action on the variance completes local approvals recorded at the meeting; any future subdivision or building permits would require separate reviews and approvals as required by city code and any applicable county or state regulations.