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Lancaster planning commission denies Waypoint Christian Church request to split lot at Hawk Street
Summary
The planning commission unanimously denied variances Sept. 11 that would have allowed Waypoint Christian Church to split a parcel at the terminus of Hawk Street without required frontage and public sewer, following staff and engineering testimony that the proposed lot would be non-conforming and not buildable as presented.
The Lancaster City Planning Commission voted unanimously Sept. 11 to deny variances requested by Waypoint Christian Church that would have allowed a lot split at the terminus of Hawk Street without extending public sewer or constructing a cul-de-sac.
Chasilyn Carter introduced Case No. 2025.012. The church, represented by agent Brad Seevers and realtor Rich Flowers, asked for multiple variances from Lancaster Codified Ordinance 1105.03, including relief from requirements for public street frontage, sanitary/street access, lot shape and sidewalks. Staff recommended denial, saying the proposed split would create a non-conforming parcel that could not be developed without public improvements.
Curt Shonk of Engineering told the commission the property "as is the property is not buildable" because there is no public sewer or proper street access where the church sought frontage. Jeff Baird (Engineering) and other staff noted that sewer service is located at the intersection of Hawk Street and Beverly Hills Drive and that creation of a buildable lot would likely require extending sanitary lines and building a cul-de-sac or other public improvements.
Brad Seevers, representing Waypoint Christian Church, said the church opened in 2023 and has faced financial strain after contractor and leadership turnover; Seevers said the church hoped to sell part of its roughly three-acre parcel to help cover loan obligations and asked the commission to permit a lot split so a future buyer could determine development. "This property has been worrisome to members," Seevers said, describing the church's financial pressures.
Realtor Rich Flowers said the intent was to enable one house on the parcel but that requirements to stub a road and install utilities could make a sale infeasible. Stephanie Hall of the Law Director's Office noted that deed language could impose restrictions, saying "this could be included in the deed language," but staff and engineering cautioned that deed language would not substitute for required public improvements under the code.
Commissioners discussed possible alternatives — working with a developer to bring public improvements, building a cul-de-sac or reconfiguring lot geometry — but concluded that granting the requested variances would simply create a non-conforming lot and shift the burden to a future buyer. Commissioner John Sigafoos moved to adopt staff recommendations and deny the variances; Bob Lovell seconded and the vote was unanimous. Service Safety Director Carrie Woody carried the motion.
The church may pursue a subdivision or development approach that includes public improvements, or return with a different application; the commission adjourned at 10:28 a.m.
