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Coffee County board tables Scenic Road 50-foot access variance pending easement records
Summary
The board tabled a request from applicants (including Sarah Banks) for a variance to the 50-foot access requirement for a Scenic Road parcel after discussions revealed unclear ownership/documentation of a private road and possible utility (TUA/TVA) interests; the board requested written easement documentation and will revisit the application.
Sarah Banks and a co-applicant told the Coffee County Board of Appeals on April 16 that they seek a shared easement across seven parcels to reach a build site on a private road off Scenic Road. They said the existing surface is a private road and that the applicants planned to share access rather than build a new crossing.
Neighbors and nearby property owners raised concerns about the condition of the private road and who would pay for repairs. Scott Cunningham and Mike Sappington said residents previously paid to pave parts of the road and worried that construction traffic could damage it. Speakers noted the road had historically been used by residents and that water lines run along it.
During the discussion, board members and residents examined deed and tax-card information in the meeting packet and referenced quick-claim transfers. Speakers reported that the local utility authority (TUA) appears on county records as owning the strip beneath the pavement following transfers from a private owner (Gail Gamble). Because it was not clear whether TUA had formally accepted ownership or whether an easement had been recorded that grants access to the applicants, a board member moved to table the application so staff could obtain formal documentation. The motion to table was seconded and passed by voice vote.
Why it matters: The case highlights complications when private roads, utility-owned land and older deeds intersect with present-day permitting; the board declined to act until legal ownership and recorded easement rights are clear.
Next steps: The board asked applicants to submit documentation (warranty deed, quick-claim deed or other proof) that shows an easement or TUA’s grant of access; staff will place the item on the next agenda once the records are provided.
