In a recent government meeting, the board discussed a variance application submitted by Drake Moore for a property located at 132 South Lake Drive in Arlington, South Dakota. The request seeks to allow a garage addition that would encroach on the required 8-foot setback from the property line. Currently, the existing house, built in 1950, is situated at 5 feet 7 inches from the north property line and 6 feet 1 inch from the south property line.

Moore's proposal includes a garage with living quarters above it, which would be positioned closer to the property line than the existing structure. The closest point of the proposed garage would be approximately 4 feet 1 inch from the property line, raising concerns among board members regarding fire safety and the potential impact on neighboring properties.

During the meeting, it was noted that the adjoining landowner had no objections to the variance, as confirmed by an email received prior to the meeting. Public notices regarding the variance request were published in local newspapers, and letters were sent to neighboring landowners and township officials.

Board members expressed mixed feelings about the request, with some highlighting the need for a hardship to justify the variance. They discussed the implications of granting the variance, particularly in relation to fire codes and future developments on adjacent properties. The board also considered the historical context of the property, noting that the house was built before current zoning regulations were established, which could be seen as a contributing factor to the hardship.

Ultimately, the board decided to proceed with a vote on the variance application, emphasizing the importance of evaluating each case on its individual merits. The outcome of the vote will determine whether Moore can proceed with his proposed garage addition or if he will need to explore alternative options, such as relocating the structure or negotiating with the neighboring landowner for additional property.