Commission grants Draper Incorporated reduced setback to build training facility

Henry County’s planning body approved a setback variance for Draper Incorporated (case 2353) to permit a 50-foot setback instead of the county’s 70-foot requirement so the company can construct a 9,000-square-foot training facility.

Jim Milikin, an attorney representing Draper, said the company — founded locally in 1902 — plans to tear down one building and build the training facility as part of expansion. “We would ask that this variance be granted so they can move forward with the construction process,” Milikin said.

County staff explained that the street in question crosses a city boundary and that the county maintains the roadway up to the Draper site; staff noted the company’s existing headquarters sits at a similar setback and recommended approval. Milikin said notices were mailed and published and that the applicant was not aware of opposition.

Commissioner Marsha Gratner moved to grant the variance; Commissioner John KS seconded. The commission approved the variance by voice vote with no public opposition recorded. Staff and the applicant were available to answer follow-up questions about final permitting and construction timing.

The applicant may proceed with required building permits and site work pending final plan review and permits.