Commission grants variance allowing Hickory Woods subdivision without county water connection, approves final plat

The Beavercreek Planning Commission granted a variance and approved the final subdivision for Hickory Woods Estates (S26‑4), allowing three residential lots to be created without extending the county water main. The commission voted in favor of the variance and the subdivision, each by a 4–0 roll call.

Staff presented the final plat and explained a subdivision regulation ordinarily requires connection to a public water source. The applicant requested a variance because the nearest county water main is roughly 1,700 feet away; the applicant’s representative, Derek Muncie, estimated the cost to extend the main would be approximately $350,000 for the three parcels. “It will be about $350,000 for 3 parcels,” Muncie said when discussing mainline extension costs.

Legal counsel reminded the commission the relevant standard for a variance is the practical‑difficulty test, citing the established Duncan factors (economic return, feasibility of other solutions, effect on neighborhood character, etc.). Commissioners discussed whether the owners could reasonably develop the property without the extension and whether the hardship could be obviated by another method. Staff said Greene County sanitary engineering would be asked for a letter confirming the county’s position regarding connection.

After discussion, the commission approved the variance allowing development without a county water connection and then approved the S26‑4 final subdivision with the recommended conditions. The roll calls for both votes recorded four yes votes and no opposition. The commission noted permit and engineering reviews (sewer, stormwater, drainage) remain part of later review steps.