Commission recommends approval of variance to reduce setbacks at 228 Applecross Drive

The Columbia County Planning Commission recommended approval of a variance to reduce building setbacks at 228 Applecross Drive, accepting staff’s finding that the proposed house would be consistent with adjacent single‑family residences and that an easement‑encroachment agreement should be a condition of approval.

Staff presenter Dylan summarized the lot as less than a tenth of an acre, zoned apartment residential though previously occupied by a single‑family house, and described the lot’s trapezoidal shape and the need for setback reductions and an encroachment agreement because a 10‑foot drainage and utility easement runs along the rear lot line.

Dylan told commissioners staff had coordinated with the applicant on the required easement paperwork and that the HOA supported the request. “Seeing that there are no other major issues, this is in keeping again with the character of a couple other single family residences that are already built within this property,” Dylan said and recommended approval with the easement‑encroachment condition.

Applicant Connor Poole, who identified himself as the property owner at 228 Applecross, said his plan closely replicates the original home that once sat on the slab and was based on measurements of a neighbor’s house because county records of the original plans were not available. “This plan, to the best of my ability, is the exact house that was there,” Poole said.

A commissioner moved to recommend approval of variance VA (reduce building setbacks at 228 Applecross Drive) with the conditions discussed by staff; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice/hand vote recorded in the meeting notes.

The recommendation means the matter will be forwarded consistent with commission practice for final action as required by relevant procedures and any required encroachment paperwork must be completed as a condition of approval.