Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Variance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves Pretzer variance to plant shelterbelt closer to road
Summary
Stark County planners recommended and the commission approved VAR 125, allowing Michael and Alicia Pretzer to plant trees closer than the ordinance setback to establish a shelterbelt for wind and dust protection; Road Superintendent Todd Miller and nearby residents voiced support.
The Stark County Planning and Zoning Commission on Dec. 18 approved VAR 125, allowing Michael and Alicia Pretzer to plant trees nearer to a county road than the 125-foot setback specified in the Stark County zoning ordinance.
Mike Pretzer, who lives on the property, told the commission the farmhouse sits on a hill with no natural wind protection. He said the proposed shelterbelt on the west side of the house is intended “to reduce the wind and especially the dust that blows from that gravel road onto our property,” and that the family includes a member with asthma who would benefit from reduced dust.
Todd Miller, Stark County road superintendent, said he and his foreman reviewed the site and do not anticipate issues because the proposed plantings are on the east side of the road where recent reconstruction provides adequate space. “We don't see any issue since it's on the East Side,” Miller said, adding that the road has been rebuilt and the request should not impede road operations.
Several neighbors spoke in favor. Lauren Myron, who said she lives a mile away and aids the Pretzers when they are snowed in, expressed support. Larry Markison, the applicant’s father-in-law, said earlier trees planted by his grandfather had died and the family recently removed stumps in anticipation of replanting.
Planner Steve Josephson said a variance of 49 feet would result from approving a tree setback less than the ordinance requirement and noted letters of support and engineer review; staff recommended approval subject to conditions that reflect the request. A commissioner moved to approve VAR 125; the motion was seconded and passed on roll call. The item will be transmitted to the county commission on Dec. 29.
Why it matters: The variance relaxes a setback intended for snow management and right-of-way considerations; staff and the road superintendent said the proposal is compatible with local conditions, but the county commission will take final action.
