The City of Franklin's Board of Zoning Appeals convened on July 3, 2025, to discuss a significant property variance request from Brian Biglin, the new owner of a home that has been found to be in violation of zoning setbacks. Biglin, who recently transitioned into real estate after retiring from a career in financial services, expressed his concerns regarding the property's compliance with city regulations.

During the meeting, Biglin detailed his experience purchasing the home, which he described as having been stripped of its fixtures and lacking a certificate of occupancy due to prior ownership issues. He stated that he was unaware of the zoning violations at the time of purchase, as these issues were not disclosed by the seller and were not evident in public records. Biglin emphasized that he had taken steps to understand the property’s status after closing, only to discover the setbacks and encroachments that rendered the home out of compliance.

In his appeal, Biglin argued that the previous builder's actions, which led to the current zoning issues, were not his responsibility. He highlighted that the city inspectors had visited the property numerous times without identifying the violations. Biglin also noted that he had purchased adjacent lots as a precautionary measure to mitigate potential losses and to explore options for compliance, such as consolidating the lots to meet zoning requirements.

Public comments during the meeting included concerns from local residents about the potential impact of variances on neighborhood aesthetics and drainage issues. Some residents expressed a desire for consistent enforcement of zoning regulations across the area.

The Board of Zoning Appeals is now tasked with considering Biglin's request for a variance, which could allow him to retain the property without facing costly demolition or reconstruction. The board's decision will be pivotal in determining the future of the property and the implications for zoning enforcement in Franklin.