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Minot planning commission approves variance to finish 5th Crossing townhomes
Summary
The planning commission unanimously approved a variance reducing rear setbacks from 20 to 16 feet and raising lot coverage from 40% to 45% for multiple townhome lots in 5th Crossing, a move staff said will allow previously platted lots to be built and help add housing.
The Minot Planning Commission voted unanimously Thursday to grant a variance that will allow townhomes to be completed in the 5th Crossing subdivision.
Staff presented case 2026-1850, explaining the developer seeks a reduction of the rear yard setback from 20 feet to 16 feet and an increase in maximum lot coverage from 40% to 45% for the platted townhome lots at 1516–1568 47th Loop Southeast. Planning staff noted these lots were platted before current townhome design standards and said the dimensions make it difficult to meet today’s requirements.
"The lot not conforming to our current requirements for a townhome lot, and our desire to see housing get built," planning staff member Diedrichsen said, arguing that allowing townhome lots to be built with townhomes "seemed like a reasonable" basis for a variance. Staff supported adoption of findings of fact and recommended approval.
With no public opposition at the hearing, Commissioner Kibler moved to approve based on staff findings; Commissioner Amick seconded. The chair praised planning staff and said the decision aligns with the city’s 2040 comprehensive plan goal to stimulate housing development. A roll call recorded unanimous approval and the motion carried.
The variance applies to Lots 5A–11B, Block 2, 55th Crossing, Third Edition. The commission recorded the approval at the meeting; applicants will proceed with permitting and required final site and building permits under the conditions of the land development ordinance.
