Annette Beard
Addressing a variance request, Pea Ridge Planning Commission members acknowledge the possible need of reevaluating city planning codes as the popularity of small dwellings increases.
Teresa Dean requested a variance for a small residence on her son's property on Turner Way. She told planners she had done everything required by the city building official then learned that the lot was too small for the planned mother-in-law quarters.
Dean said she lives part time with her 85-year-old mother at a different residence and this would provide a private place for her part time.
"We need to figure out a little deeper, as you look at the small house trend," planner Donnie Ewald said.
"I echo that," Zach Hoyt, Planning Commission chairman, said. "It seems to be a trend that's going to stay."
"We probably need to look at it because it is coming," Tony Townsend, city building official, said.
The 256-square-foot building is temporary, not permanent, Dean told city officials, explaining that it's on blocks, not a slab. She said it is connected to the water and sewer with the residence.
Dean told city officials the building was originally placed in the yard to be a pool house, but plans changed after her mother's health declined. She said she also realized utility lines would have to be moved to install a pool.
"What's the difference in having someone live in an RV in the backyard?" Chris Johnson, planner, asked.
Townsend said he governs that.
Planner M.J. Hensley said the $2,000 impact fee did not apply because her presence there would not increase a demand on the infrastructure. Planners voted to waive the impact fee
In other business, planners:
• Approved a variance request for a side setback for a residence on Willis Lane from 10 feet to 6 feet to add a pool for Jason VanDyke, represented by Mike VanDyke;
• Approved preliminary plat changes requested by Franklin Miller, developer, Elkhorn Ridge, for about two acres added to the subdivision.
Planners Al Fowler, Donnie Ewald, Chris Johnson, Zach Hoyt, Jerry Burton, M.J. Hensley and Dr. Karen Sherman were present, as was building official Tony Townsend.
General News on 07/20/2016