Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Use Variance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board grants three accessory-structure setback variances near Creamery Road in La Crescent Township
Summary
After staff said the site likely sits in the DNR-designated flood fringe and is constrained by small lot sizes, the Houston County Board approved three variances allowing an accessory structure closer to Creamery Road and two property lines for applicants James and Cheryl.
The Houston County Board of Adjustment approved three setback variances for an accessory structure proposed by James and Cheryl in La Crescent Township.
Staff told the board that the parcel is small (roughly 3.35 acres across multiple lots), much of it lies within flood-prone areas and that the Department of Natural Resources had indicated the site is within the flood fringe — a designation that allows building with appropriate elevation and analysis. The proposed accessory structure was described as up to 40 by 60 feet; applicants and staff discussed survey stakes, a nearby well and fill needs.
Speaker 1 said staff had contacted Crescent Township and that township officials "had no concerns" about the proposal, though the township’s maintenance and road status (Creamery Road) were discussed. The board and applicants debated reducing a requested 15-foot property-line variance to 10 feet to minimize required fill; staff said they would benchmark flood contours and determine exact elevation requirements.
After staff read the findings required for an area variance, Speaker Ken Visker made the motion to grant three variances and Ken Anderson seconded. The motion as read by staff granted: 1) a 28-foot variance to meet the required 65-foot setback from the centerline of Creamery Road; 2) a 40-foot variance to meet the required 50-foot setback to the south property line; and 3) a 10-foot variance to meet the required 50-foot setback to the west property line. Roll-call votes were recorded as unanimous 'aye' and the motion carried.
Staff reminded the applicants that floodplain and building requirements (including fill and septic/plumbing considerations) will need to be satisfied in the permit review process. The board also noted variances have no expiration.
The meeting adjourned after the second application vote.
