BZA continues two-lot split request from BML Properties amid drainage and wetland concerns

The Clinton County Board of Zoning Appeals continued a request by BML Properties LLC seeking special-exception approval to create two additional single-family lots on a 22.2-acre parcel because of drainage and wetland concerns raised in neighbor letters and county records.

Planning staff told the board that the site contains wetlands on the northwest corner and that letters from nearby residents reported regular flooding, high water tables and soggy conditions. Staff also reviewed county records and found a prior drainage-board restriction on the property that limited the original approval to a single dwelling because of drainage challenges. Because of those documented conditions, staff recommended continuing the application to allow the applicant time to prepare an engineered drainage plan and seek drainage-board approval.

Neighbors speaking during the public comment period described seasonal high water, an old brick well that drops in dry months and a pond that fills in wet seasons. Nate Gangler, owner of adjacent property, asked whether approvals here would affect his ability to split his own land in the future; staff explained how additional approved splits on nearby parcels can change the regulatory landscape and noted that rezoning and subdivision rules would govern future applications.

At the board’s request, staff confirmed that if the applicant pursues the two-lot plan, engineering and a drainage-board decision would be required and that the board could continue the case rather than deny it at this time. The BZA voted to continue application CC2025-00988 (docket 36-25-SC) to the next regularly scheduled meeting so the applicant may pursue drainage-board/engineering review. Vote recorded as unanimous among members present.