Board approves Timmers27 variance to build 4027x4027 pole building within Brancel Road setback

Chair Bob Martin opened the Douglas County Board of Adjustment meeting Feb. 25, 2026, and the board took up application #26-1 from Steven and Jolene Timmers to construct a 4027 x 4027 pole building within the Brancel Road road setback and the front lot line setback of the R-2 residential district at 11150 S Brancel Rd in the Town of Solon Springs.

Scott Sorenson, board member, moved to approve the application, and Mary Lou Bergman, alternate board member, seconded. The motion included the finding that “unnecessary hardship is present, and is due to physical limitation of the property rather than the circumstances of the appellant. The variance will not be contrary to the public interest.” The motion passed on a roll call vote, 420Yes, 020No; Larry Kappes and Gary Saari were recorded absent.

Staff noted the requested setback (Brancel Road is measured 63 feet from the centerline or 30 feet from the right-of-way, whichever is greater) and said the proposed location sits approximately 32 feet from the centerline. The record also notes a large wetland complex behind the row of properties, which staff said has contributed to the existing pattern of accessory buildings and limited buildable area along Brancel Road. The town raised no objection to the variance.

Zoning staff said floodplain ordinance requirements must be satisfied before a land-use permit will be issued for the pole building. The board took the vote at the meeting and approved the variance, allowing the Timmers to proceed to the permitting stage once all ordinance requirements are met.