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Kent County Board of Adjustment approves manufactured‑home relocation, garage legalization and a DelDOT‑related extension
Summary
The board approved a variance allowing Big Jim's Homes to relocate a manufactured home, legalized a front‑yard detached garage for a Cross family, and granted a one‑year extension tied to a DelDOT project; minutes from March 19 were also approved.
At its April 16, 2026 meeting the Kent County Board of Adjustment approved multiple variances and procedural items after public testimony and staff reports.
Big Jim’s Homes (application A‑26‑06): The board approved a variance to allow the applicant to relocate an existing manufactured home and legalize an accessory shed so the dwelling sits fully on the subject property. Applicant/owner James Hartnett testified that the home had been in place and encroaching on a neighbor’s lot, that he will hire a mover to relocate the structure and that legalizing the shed preserves a use that dates to the 1990s. Neighbor Ed Halleck testified in favor, saying the owner cleaned up an eyesore and that the relocation would result in an occupied, maintained residence. The board found the parcel’s two‑frontage configuration and evidence of exceptional practical difficulty persuasive and voted 7‑0 to approve the variance.
Cross family accessory structure (application A‑26‑08): Homeowner Deborah Cross asked the board to legalize an existing detached accessory building located 57 feet from the front property line (code requires 100 feet). Staff testimony explained a permit had been pulled and inspections later showed the building sat forward of the planned setback; Cross said contractor measurements and an existing septic system contributed to the placement and said moving the building would be financially burdensome. Neighbor Ron Kitching supported the request and reported no safety or sight‑distance concerns. The board approved the variance 7‑0, citing financial hardship and lack of neighbor impact.
Extension for Faye Wing (application 2509): The board granted a one‑year extension tied to DelDOT’s delayed roundabout construction; DelDOT had indicated it was not ready to install required fencing and staff recommended the extension. The motion passed 7‑0.
Procedural items: The board approved the March 19 meeting minutes and closed the public hearings for the evening, then moved into the business meeting where the above votes were taken. The board adjourned after completing business.
Next steps: For approved variances the county will issue written notices and applicants will proceed with necessary permits and inspections. The county clerk will mail the written decisions as required.
