The St. Croix County Board of Adjustment convened on August 28, 2025, to discuss a variance request from local resident Mr. Lodge regarding the construction of a new garage on his property. The meeting focused on the proposed site plan, which includes a 30 by 50-foot garage and considerations for a future sanitary system.

During the discussion, board members reviewed various site plans and photographs that illustrated the property layout, including the existing detached garage and the main dwelling. A key point of contention was the proximity of the proposed garage to a bluff, which is an artificial feature created for highway purposes. Board members sought clarification on the necessary setbacks from this bluff, as Mr. Lodge's request included a reduction from the standard 25-foot setback to a 10-foot setback.

Staff member Stephanie Holmeshaw provided insights into the site’s topography and the implications of the proposed construction. She noted that the existing house is situated only 2.5 feet from the property line, raising questions about the garage's placement and compliance with local regulations. The board emphasized the importance of ensuring that the variance request is for minimal relief, meaning that Mr. Lodge should only seek the variance necessary to achieve his construction goals without overstepping regulatory boundaries.

The board's deliberations highlighted the need for further site evaluations and discussions with the town of Saint Joseph regarding additional variances. The meeting concluded with a commitment to carefully consider the implications of the proposed garage's location in relation to the bluff and surrounding properties, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to protect the area’s environmental integrity.

Next steps will involve further assessments and potential adjustments to the site plan before any final decisions are made regarding the variance request.