Planning Commission denies variance to subdivide Black Bear Trace parcel

The Dawson County Planning Commission voted 3-0 on May 19 to deny a variance request to allow additional lots to be created from a roughly 38-acre parcel off Black Bear Trace. Applicant Jeff Runner said he sought to divide the property into about five additional parcels of roughly seven acres each and that he would amend the private drive maintenance agreement to include future owners. "The property consists of approximately 38 acres and I wish to divide the property into approximately five additional parcels," Runner said during the hearing.

Neighbors opposed the request, citing roadway safety and emergency-access concerns. Jake Reichel told the commission the existing private drive is narrow and not capable of safely handling increased traffic, raising questions about emergency-vehicle access and long-term maintenance. James Collinson told commissioners the road does not meet county standards and that additional development should comply with those standards. The commission discussed whether the proposed lot increase would trigger major-subdivision requirements and whether upgrading the road or requiring a new access would be necessary; no plan to upgrade the existing roadway was offered by the applicant.

After discussion the commission moved to deny the variance; the motion passed 3-0 (Maloney/Townley). The denial prevents the additional lots under the variance request as presented. The record shows the decision was formal and final at the Planning Commission level for this application; no further action was recorded in the transcript.