On April 11, 2025, the Kent County Department of Planning, Housing and Zoning approved an administrative special exception allowing Mr. and Mrs. Genovese to construct a 676‑square‑foot pole building with a 572‑square‑foot second‑floor apartment at 2604 Bessex Corner Road in Stillpond.

The special exception was required because the proposed building exceeds the county’s median height limit of 17 feet and the parcel is under five acres. Director Bill Mackey said the request meets the criteria in the Kent County Land Use Ordinance and recommended approval with a two‑year time limit for substantial construction.

Rob Tracy, associate planner, presented the staff report and noted the 2‑acre lot is unimproved, that the accessory building would meet setbacks, and that the site is about a quarter mile from New Christian Chapel and more than 3.5 miles from Kent County High School in Wharton. Rob Tracy told the hearing there were no anticipated adverse impacts to the environment, property values, or neighborhood character and that the Kent County Comprehensive Plan is neutral on the proposal.

The applicants spoke in support, told the board the building will store boats, RVs and equipment, and noted the proposed materials and colors are intended to coordinate with the house and neighborhood landscaping. The record includes one supportive email submitted before the hearing.

Director Bill Mackey said, "I would agree with staff and I would recommend for approval, with the two years length." He accepted the staff report, technical advisory comments and applicants' remarks into the record and granted the special exception with the condition that the approval will lapse after two years if no substantial construction consistent with the approved plans occurs.

A written decision will follow in about one to two weeks. Under Maryland practice cited at the hearing, a 30‑day appeal period begins on issuance of that decision; the county may finalize permit review during the appeal period but cannot issue the building permit until the appeal period lapses.