Murphy and Starkey applicants seek minor subdivision and front‑setback variances for private road on Carpenter Bridge Road

Two related applications on the Aug. 21 agenda seek a minor subdivision that would add a private road off Carpenter Bridge Road to create a lot behind existing farm properties for a family member. The applicants are Gregory Murphy (trustee) and Teresa Murphy and the Starkeys; the two matters were presented and heard together (A‑25‑21 and A‑25‑22).

Staff explained the plan shows a new private road and two affected structures: an existing detached garage that would be 6.1 feet from the proposed private road (requiring relief from the 30‑foot front setback) and an existing dwelling that would be 15.3 feet from the proposed private road (also seeking relief from the 30‑foot setback). The proposal would remove a small red building and keep the white detached garage. The plan was described as accommodating a lot that the Starkey family wants to reserve for a granddaughter.

Carl (who identified himself as the resident speaking for the Starkeys) and Gregory Murphy testified in favor and said neighboring family members had been notified and most supported the proposal; Murphy told the board the garage is used for storage and he has no plans to further subdivide the large farm behind the parcels. Murphy said the property will remain in farmland use beyond the proposed lot for the granddaughter. The board asked questions about ownership, any intent for further subdivisions and the relationship of the proposed 50‑foot DelDOT right‑of‑way standard; staff said the applicants adjusted property lines to obtain a 50‑foot right‑of‑way and that DelDOT did not object to the new entrance.

No opposition was recorded and the board closed the public hearing for both applications. The provided business‑meeting excerpt does not show the board's final vote on these two items; staff said that decisions will be made in the business meeting after consideration of the record.