Galveston board approves lot-depth variance to replat two Granbow lots

The Galveston Zoning Board of Adjustment voted to approve a lot-depth variance on Jan. 7, 2026, to allow a replat of five small parcels into two at 14134 and 14142 Granbow. The variance reduces the minimum lot depth requirement from 100 feet to 91.2 feet for the newly configured lots.

Applicant Titus Harris told the board the properties are family-owned and were platted decades ago; one house was built in 1975. Harris said the replat would consolidate ownership and prevent a future subdivided lot that could allow out-of-scale development next to long-standing neighbors. “We’re trying to make them work for today’s needs,” Harris said, explaining the family’s intent to create two continuous lots rather than preserve the existing narrow lot pattern.

Staff noted 17 public notices went out for the application, one returned and one in favor, and that no city departments objected. A nearby resident, Willie Rutti, spoke in support of the application for the record.

A board member moved to approve the variance, citing special conditions created by the original 1970s platting and concluding that strict literal enforcement would impose an unnecessary hardship. The motion carried; the chair recorded, “That’s all 5 and motion passes.”

What happens next: the applicant may proceed with the replatting process in accordance with city procedures. The board’s approval was unanimous among voting members present.

Why it matters: the decision lets the Harris family simplify lot configuration and protects the neighborhood from potential future infill that could alter block character.