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Benton County tables land‑use request to build house on high‑quality farmland; board to visit site
Summary
During a land‑use hearing March 3, Benton County staff advised that a proposed 3.85‑acre residential use sits on a 9.3‑acre parcel with an average CSR of 70 and is inconsistent with the county's Land Preservation and Use Plan; the board tabled the request and scheduled a site visit and rehearing.
The Benton County Board of Supervisors on March 3 tabled a land‑use request from applicant Cameron Erickson after staff said the parcel in question rates as high‑quality farmland under the county’s land‑preservation rules.
Andrea Morris, a county staff member who presented technical analysis, told the board the requested change would affect about 3.85 acres of a 9.3‑acre parcel that carries an average corn suitability rating (CSR) of 70, which the staff memo described as "high‑quality farmland." Morris said the request does not meet the county ordinance’s definition of a farm and found it inconsistent with applicable policies in the Benton County Land Preservation and Use Plan. The minutes note one written concern filed by a neighboring farmer about disruption to crop operations.
Applicant Cameron Erickson said he expected no disruption to nearby farming and described his intention as seeking a "peaceful place in the county to call his home." After staff comments and hearing no additional public testimony, the board voted unanimously to table the request to allow supervisors time for a site visit. The board re‑noticed the item for a follow‑up hearing on March 10, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.
The county record shows the parcel is owned by the John R. Owens Estate; staff noted the site will require a permitted septic system, private well and a new driveway, and that Secondary Roads had reviewed and approved driveway access.
By tabling the request, the board paused any decision on changing the land’s designation pending the planned site visit and the board’s reconsideration at the rehearing.
