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Commissioners approve setback variance for small, triangular lot despite neighbor objections; 3-2 vote
Summary
The board approved a variance allowing a proposed house to be built closer to property lines than code allows on a small, oddly shaped lot. Supporters said the triangular parcel creates a hardship; opponents said applicants should redesign to fit code. The motion passed 3-2.
The Board of County Commissioners on April 8 approved a setback variance for a triangular lot on Thunderbird Avenue, allowing a proposed principal structure to sit closer to the side and front property lines than Hernando County zoning normally permits.
What commissioners considered: The petitioner, Jesse Navarro, said the parcel's odd triangular shape created practical hardship and that he intended to build workforce housing for employees. County staff confirmed the request sought to reduce side setbacks from the usual 10 feet to 6 feet and the front setback from 25 feet to about 15.4 feet.
Neighbors and concerns: Nearby residents objected at the public hearing, saying existing lots in the block are developed to code and that changing the setbacks would be unfair or would raise future encroachment issues. One neighbor asked for an independent survey and cautioned that approving the variance could allow the lot to be resold at a higher value.
Board discussion: Commissioners expressed differing views on hardship and fairness. Supporters said the lot's unusual shape and the petitioner's plan for modest, multi-suite housing for workers constituted an allowable hardship under the variance standard. Others said applicants should engineer a design that fits established setbacks and cautioned about setting a precedent. The petitioner volunteered during the hearing to limit the current approval to the structure presented.
Vote and outcome: The board approved the variance by a 3-2 vote after a motion limiting approval to the scope of the present construction plans; the motion was moved by Commissioner Louis Champion and seconded by Commissioner Bob Campbell. The record shows the motion carried 3-2. The approval allows the owner to proceed with the proposed building as presented to the board.
Next steps: The approval applies to the lot and to the building envelope shown on the plans presented to the board; any different or additional building additions would require further county review and potential new approvals.
