The Lakeway commission approved a variance allowing property owners William and Jane Schilhorn to place an air-conditioner pad and screening within the left-side building setback at 15102 Berry Drive.

The owners asked for a two-foot encroachment into the five-foot left-side setback to accommodate a mini-split HVAC unit and the screening the permitting process requires. William Schilhorn told the commission the concrete pad was poured late last year and that the encroachment was identified during the permitting review.

“I went ahead and poured the pad,” William Schilhorn said, explaining that removing or cutting the concrete would be an alternative if the variance were not granted but that either option would present challenges for properly siting and operating the HVAC unit.

City staff clarified that the code requires screening but does not prescribe the screening material. “Perhaps the HOA may, but you could put landscaping around to screen it and that would be acceptable per code,” a staff member said.

Commissioners asked questions about shade, drainage and maintenance: the Schilhorns said the side yard is shaded and has been difficult for plantings in recent summers, and staff observed that landscaping in that side area could be subject to runoff or localized drainage during heavy rain. Commissioners also noted the property retains other space and access on the opposite side yard.

After brief discussion, a commissioner moved to approve the encroachment and another seconded. The commission approved the variance by voice vote.

The owners are permitted to use landscaping as an acceptable screening solution under city code; the staff and the owners discussed options including plantings and the possibility the HOA could have stricter standards. The owners said they intend to pursue plantings such as butterfly bushes and will work with staff to identify suitable screening that meets both code and site constraints.