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BZA approves large pole barn in lake-residential zone; neighbors object to scale and setbacks
Summary
The board granted variances to allow a 40-by-80-foot pole building in an L1 lake-residential area, reducing front setbacks and approving a reduced south side setback despite public opposition and letters citing conflicts with lake residential guidelines.
The Marshall County Board of Zoning Appeals approved multiple variances to allow construction of a 40-by-80-foot pole building on lots near Liberty and Lipton streets in a lake-residential (L1) neighborhood.
Petitioner Dwayne Knott sought reduced front-yard setbacks on both Liberty Street and Lipton Street, a reduction of a south side-yard setback, and increased lot coverage to accommodate the proposed building. Staff told the board the property is bounded by Liberty Street to the east and Lipton Street to the west and that surrounding lots historically do not meet current zoning standards. The Technical Review Committee recommended approval but asked that the south side remain at a 10-foot setback rather than be reduced further.
Knott said the building is intended for private storage — he described a desire to house boats, trailers and three restoration vehicles and to avoid outdoor storage. "I don't do any paint work, and no welding or cutting," he said, adding the structure would include an 18-by-14 overhead door and be used mainly for storage and limited indoor vehicle work. Knott said he may run a water line to the building for washing vehicles.
Multiple neighbors and written correspondences urged denial. Letters and speakers cited lake-residential guidance calling for protection of setbacks and view sheds and warned that the proposed 75% lot coverage and 80-foot length would "overpower the adjacent residential properties." One correspondent wrote the request "appears to conflict" with lake-residential goals and warned it could set a precedent for nonresidential development around the lake.
Board members discussed the existing pattern of development around the lake — staff showed several nearby properties that already exceed the 45% lot coverage standard or have shallow setbacks. After discussion a board member moved to approve the variances with the side-yard setback reduced per the motion (the TRC had recommended preserving a 10-foot south side yard). The motion passed on a voice vote.
The board noted the final footprint may change if the petitioner acquires the adjacent lot to the south; staff said if that additional lot is combined with the existing parcels the petitioner could reorient the building without another variance. The record shows the board approved the variances despite opposition letters and neighborhood concerns; no building permits will be issued until standard permitting steps are completed.
Sources: Marshall County BZA transcript, staff presentation and written correspondence for case 25BZA42.
