Board grants 30-day extension as neighbors, planners debate front-facing garages on Matthews Mint Hill Road

The Matthews Board of Commissioners on April 13 agreed to a 30-day extension for the petitioner proposing an administrative amendment to the Lima Town Homes (1718 Matthews Mint Hill Road) to add front-facing garages.

Planning staff and project consultants described constraints and options for accommodating garages on the four-unit site. Consultant Carlton Burton said market research and realtor feedback led the applicant to propose garages to increase storage and marketability. Amy Le Mur, representing the project, told commissioners that prospective buyers wanted garages and additional storage, so the amendment would add front-facing garages while trying to preserve green space.

Several commissioners and staff raised concerns about the narrow (20-foot) driveway area between sidewalk and buildings, vehicle maneuverability, potential pickup-truck use, and defensible-space visibility for the adjacent Butler High School. Commissioners suggested screening (walls or landscaping) could mitigate visual concerns but warned screening might complicate vehicle movements.

After discussion the board voted unanimously to give the applicant 30 days to work with staff and return with a refined proposal addressing circulation, screening and safety concerns.

What happens next: The petitioner will work with planning staff on screening and circulation refinements and return to the board at the next meeting; no final approval of the amendment was made on April 13.