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Board approves setback variance for Savannah Ridge to allow larger homes on Pierce Place
Summary
The Town of Merrillville Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance reducing front-yard setbacks on several lots in the Savannah Ridge subdivision from 30 to 20 feet to allow marketable single-family homes and maintain uniformity; the decision will move to the town council as required.
The Town of Merrillville Board of Zoning Appeals voted to approve a variance reducing the front-yard setback from 30 feet to 20 feet for Lots 39 through 45 in the Savannah Ridge subdivision on Pierce Place.
Richard Anderson, representing Savannah Ridge LLC and O'Donnell Homes, told the board the variance is necessary because wetlands on the subdivision's east side limit backyards and would otherwise force builders to shrink home footprints. Anderson said the homes planned for the lots are priced roughly between $450,000 and $600,000 and that a 20-foot setback will allow builders to construct homes consistent with neighboring properties and provide usable backyards.
Sheila, the board's staff member, presented the staff report, listing affected parcels and saying the reduction is requested to ensure uniform front setbacks and to permit sellable single-family residences. She noted the approval would apply only to the petitioner and this location.
Neighbors raised concerns. Robert Freeman, who lives across from the proposed lots, said he had mowed an adjacent parcel for two decades and was surprised the land was being developed; he asked whether longtime residents had been offered a chance to buy the lot. A homeowner who received certified notice, Courtney of West 77th Place, asked whether the change would affect existing homeowners’ property lines; the chair and staff clarified the variance does not alter other owners’ property lines or staking.
After board questions about sidewalks, driveway capacity on the cul-de-sac and landscaping implications of a 20-foot setback, a board member moved to approve case Z32B6-1225. The board recorded four yes votes with one member absent and approved the variance; the matter will be forwarded to the town council where required by local procedure.
The board did not attach additional conditions beyond the petition as presented. The board’s decision was announced at the meeting; no further appeals or conditions were stated on the record.
