Commission approves 3–1 split of a 10.1-acre tract after engineer OKs easement reduction

The Preble County Rural Zoning Commission approved Case 1644 by a 3–1 vote on April 7, allowing owner George H. Combs to split a roughly 10.1-acre tract into two approximately 5.05-acre parcels so a new, smaller home can be built on the northern half. The commission voted after hearing from the applicant’s agent and extended questioning about lot shape and long-term maintenance.

Stephen Pope, agent for property owner George Combs, told the commission that one barn corner sits 36 feet from the property line and the Preble County Engineer granted approval to reduce the required access easement from 40 feet to 36 feet. "We lowered that access easement to 36 instead of 40 and that would be, certainly wide enough to accommodate the driveway that’s currently there now," Pope said.

Commissioner John Toschlog expressed concern about the narrow, elongated lot form—commonly called 'bowling alley lots'—and how similar splits on adjacent tracts could increase housing density in an agricultural area. Toschlog warned of potential downstream effects: "Potentially, there would be nothing, especially if there were precedent, there would be nothing to keep the next property from doing the same thing."

Wm. Clark Brown moved to approve the split under Sections 801 and 1103.01, Items B–I; Dan Hays seconded. Roll call showed Brown, Hays and Toschlog voting 'Yes' and Chairman Mike Besecker voting 'No'; the motion passed 3–1. Brad Kramer said the commission’s recommendation will go to the County Commissioners for a final hearing on May 6.