Commissioners approve residential variances; Collins garage draws neighbor objections

The Stephens County Board approved three variance requests for residential properties, voting to grant the Connor and Mulberry River variances and to allow a front‑yard accessory structure for Jacob (Dean) Collins after neighbors expressed strong objections.

For James and Cindy Connor (122 Trestle View Road, Parcel 009 D 039), James Connor explained topographical constraints that limit where structures can be placed; the planning commission recommended approval and the board carried the motion unanimously.

Mulberry River Properties requested a five‑foot variance to allow a 95‑foot lot width instead of 100 feet so a residence can be built; the applicant said they planned to build a residential house and the board approved the request on staff recommendation.

The most contested item was the application by Dean Collins (146 Overlook Drive) for a front‑yard accessory structure. Collins said his house sits at the rear of the lot and he plans a roughly 1,600‑square‑foot garage for personal use, noting the 12‑foot wall height is needed to store a full‑size pickup. Neighbors led by Joe Roach argued the proposed structure—described in neighbor testimony as up to 30 by 54 feet with loft and taller walls—would be one of the largest buildings in the neighborhood, block views and is inconsistent with the community’s character. Roach told the board the neighborhood is mostly 1970s-era houses and that 14 of 18 houses are under 1,500 square feet.

Commissioners acknowledged the private covenants and encouraged neighbor dialogue; they also noted the county does not enforce private covenants. After discussion, the board approved the Collins variance, with a recorded voice vote. Commissioners urged the applicant and neighbors to resolve size and design issues on the front end to avoid litigation.

All three motions were carried by the board at the meeting; specific recorded voice votes were noted for each motion.