The Board of Zoning Appeals for the Town of Lexington convened on January 2, 2025, to discuss a variance request from local resident Michael Jack. The primary focus of the meeting was Jack's proposal to replace a carport that was damaged during Hurricane Helene.

Jack explained that the carport had been flipped upside down by the storm and expressed his desire to rebuild it in the same location where it had previously stood. He noted that relocating the structure was not feasible due to property line constraints. The board reviewed photographs of the damage and discussed the implications of the reconstruction.

During the meeting, board members raised questions about the carport's placement and its potential impact on traffic safety. They confirmed that the proposed location would not encroach on the roadway or create hazards for drivers or visitors. The board also noted that the carport had been in place for over 20 years without any issues related to sight lines or safety.

After deliberation, a board member made a motion to approve the variance, citing several reasons: the existing home's location made relocation impractical, the surrounding properties had not been developed in a way that would create similar issues, and reconstructing the carport in its original spot would not affect road safety or the surrounding area.

The board's decision to approve the variance reflects a commitment to supporting residents in rebuilding efforts while ensuring community safety and compliance with zoning regulations. The next steps will involve finalizing the approval process for Jack's reconstruction plans.