Board approves setback relief for Reed Road shop with 30-foot condition

Chair Gary Fury opened the discussion on Case 26-DA-02, a variance request for a proposed shop on Reed Road. The applicant said he needed to place a 30-by-40 shop off a side street on a corner lot because septic constraints, a steep drop-off and a mature tree line limited buildable area. "Right now, I'm asking for 25 feet from center line, which will give 15 feet from the edge of the road to the front of the shop," the applicant said during his presentation.

Board members and staff reviewed easements and the road cross section, noting utility easements within the county's 50-foot easement and the risk of placing a structure on an easement. Stacy Turner, area plan director, and other members suggested a modest increase to the requested setback to avoid potential conflicts with utilities. After discussion the board moved to approve the variance with the condition that the building be set 30 feet from the road center (effectively adding 5 feet to the applicant's request). A motion to approve with that condition carried by voice vote; the board did not record a roll-call tally at the meeting. Chair Gary Fury advised the applicant to consult staff about next steps and any necessary permits.