Commission approves 20-acre rezoning despite Victor Township opposition

The Planning Commission recommended that the Board of Commissioners approve a map amendment to rezone approximately 20 acres at 6503 E. Price Road in Victor Township (Parcel ID: 140-004-400-007-00) from A-2 (General Agriculture) to A-3 (Agriculture/Residential Transition). Lynn Wilson presented the application and noted the county Future Land Use Map designates the parcel as Rural/Transitional.

Victor Township Planning Commission member Tammy Ashley said the Victor Township board reviewed the application and did not vote in favor of it, explaining the township's concern that the parcel does not align with its Future Land Use Map. "The Victor Township board is trying to preserve the rural character of land in Victor Township," Ashley said. Applicant Ryan Randolph said the property's original home was condemned, and after demolition and installation of deer-farm fencing and structures, there was no place to reconstruct the home in its original location; he told commissioners he wants to divide the land so it can be passed to his children.

Commissioners discussed whether to amend the application to limit future parcel splitting; County Attorney Mallory Reader advised the commission it could not amend the applicant's request at the hearing and that any conditions must be agreed to before the meeting. After reviewing findings of fact and discussing township concerns, the commission voted 7-0 (motion by Brian Byars, supported by Rebecca Batterbee) to recommend approval to the Board of Commissioners.