Residents oppose Preston rezoning in Square Lake; board split 3–3 and mayor’s deciding vote not recorded
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Summary
A rezoning that would allow a 1.67‑acre lot in Square Lake to be subdivided into two lots prompted heavy resident opposition over septic, well‑water and neighborhood character concerns; a motion to deny produced a 3–3 split and the transcript ends before the mayor’s final tiebreaking vote was recorded.
The commission debated a contested rezoning request (Preston Residences) that would change a 1.67‑acre parcel from Residential Estate (RE) to Residential Transitional (RT), allowing an administrative subdivision into two single‑family lots.
Applicant presentation and staff recommendation: Attorney Seth Bain said the rezoning is consistent with surrounding development patterns and the county’s comprehensive plan rounding rule; staff recommended approval and noted the parcel meets property development regulations for RT zoning.
Strong public opposition: Dozens of long‑term Square Lake residents spoke against the rezoning. They said the area relies on well water and septic systems, lacks sidewalks and street lights, and that prior rezonings to RT had not produced sub‑acre buildouts in recent decades. Speakers expressed concern that rezoning this parcel would set a precedent for additional splits that could double neighborhood density, increase traffic and force sewer extensions.
Board action and vote: Commissioner Marino moved to deny the rezoning. After public testimony and commissioner discussion that included legal and compatibility questions, roll‑call voting recorded a 3‑3 split. The mayor indicated he would cast the deciding vote and asked the county attorney about legal risks of denial; the transcript ends before the mayor’s final vote is recorded.
Why it matters: The decision would determine whether one more lot in a long‑established one‑acre neighborhood can be split; residents argued it would change neighborhood character and infrastructure needs. The rezoning also illustrates how comprehensive‑plan rounding rules and RT designations can create tension between property‑rights claims and neighborhood preservation.
Status: As recorded in the meeting transcript, the motion to deny produced a tie; the mayor signaled he would break the tie but the final, deciding vote is not in the provided transcript.
