Planning commission recommends favorable for Carl Artman duplex, forwards to Board of Supervisors

The Graham County Planning and Zoning Commission voted to send a favorable recommendation to the Board of Supervisors on an application from Carl Artman to convert a property into a duplex.

The recommendation came during the commission’s regular meeting after staff said the duplex will tie into the main sewer system rather than use septic, and that a neighbor had expressed a fencing concern but had not filed a written opposition. The commission moved and seconded the recommendation and indicated unanimous agreement.

Planning staff told the commission the applicant can connect to the main sewer, a detail that often affects whether properties are allowed to use sewer or septic systems. A staff member also noted a neighbor had raised a concern about a fence at the rear of the property and suggested the applicant speak with that neighbor after the hearing; staff said no written opposition had been submitted.

Applicant Carl Artman said he and his brother purchased the property two years ago and described the lot as having been “in disrepair.” He told the commission they bought the property to improve it and to enhance the community. "We saw an opportunity, and, we like to be afforded the advantage or the opportunity to enhance that community there and have a better, a view for our visitors to the mountain and stuff," Artman said.

Commissioner Summers moved to recommend approval; a second was recorded and the commission voted to forward the item with a favorable recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, which has final authority.

The application will be placed on the Board of Supervisors’ agenda for a future meeting. The commission emphasized that its role is advisory and the Board of Supervisors will make the final decision.