Council approves multiple variances to allow four residential units where storage units stood

Huntingburg City officials voted to approve four standards variances requested by CHRK/CHR K Reynolds LLC to permit construction of two duplex buildings (four residential units) at the northeast corner of 8th Street and Van (petition 2025-04). Council and staff said the request mirrors other duplex projects nearby and responds to preexisting platted lot dimensions.

Staff and the petitioner described the variances: a lot-width variance (R2 requires 80 feet; platted lots are about 54 feet), a lot-size variance (R2 minimum 10,000 square feet; proposed lots about 5,940 square feet), an increase in allowable impervious surface (proposed roughly 48% vs. 40% allowed) and front-yard setback relief for the corner lot. The petitioner’s representative said this configuration matches a similar development on Seventh Street by the same owner.

The council and staff discussed drainage and rear access. Staff noted storm sewer on Van Beern would receive runoff and said the alley at the rear is an existing 10-foot public alley; the street department periodically maintains the alley and plans for additional upkeep if activity increases. The petitioner said parking and driveways will be accessed from the alley to avoid driveway entrances on the collector street.

One phone inquiry had asked what was being proposed; after explanation the caller raised no opposition. The council read the required UDO findings, concluded strict application of the UDO would impose practical difficulties given the platted lot records, and approved the variances. Staff will finalize paperwork for permits.