Tim Downing

The Board of Zoning Appeals addressed two main applications requiring variances. The first application, #02-26 by Jaret Bishop Rentals, sought a variance to the 8,000 square foot lot requirement to construct a two-family dwelling. After initial deliberation, the motion to approve failed for lack of a second, but a subsequent motion to approve the application conditionally, requiring current owner ownership for 5 years, was carried. The second application, #03-26 by Steven Higgins, requested a variance to the front yard setback requirement to construct a single-family dwelling due to the corner lot configuration, which was deemed a hardship and subsequently approved.

The agenda for the regular meeting includes several legislative items. Previously introduced legislation for consideration included the third reading of an ordinance amending the tax rate, and second readings for an ordinance approving an amendment to the Jefferson Township-Washington Court House Joint Economic Development District, and resolutions authorizing the City Manager to enter into a cooperative agreement for traffic signals along US 62 and US 22, purchase two Dodge Durango cruisers for the Police Department, establish a pilot downtown building infrastructure grant program, and delineate overlays for the proposed Smith Grove Incentive Districts. New legislation introduced included first readings for an ordinance determining the sufficiency of an application to add parcels to the Washington Court House New Community Authority District and approving the application itself, and resolutions authorizing a five-year contract for the rental of city-owned farmland (Dunlap Farm) and another for the rental of farmland located at SR 753 and Robinson Road.

The primary business of the meeting involved the Election of Officers for 2026, resulting in the appointment of Tami Bath as Chairman and Terry Feick as Vice-Chairman. Additionally, the Board addressed Application #01-26, which sought a variance for the side yard setback to construct a new 24' X 24' detached garage at 236 Emerald Lane, which was subsequently approved.

The agenda for the Regular Meeting of the Washington Court House City Council outlines several legislative items. Pending legislation includes the second reading of a resolution to amend Community Reinvestment Area #2 to expand its subareas and require written agreements for construction or remodeling projects. Another pending item is the second reading of a resolution confirming the appointment of Mrs. Susan Dunn to the Board of Tax Review for a term ending December 31, 2028. New legislation for first reading includes an ordinance determining the sufficiency of an application to add parcels to the Washington Court House New Community Authority District and setting a public hearing date. Other new legislation includes resolutions authorizing a development agreement with Forestar (USA) Real Estate Group Inc. and delineating overlays and adopting an economic development plan for the proposed Smith Grove Incentive Districts.

The Board of Zoning Appeals convened to discuss an application for a variance regarding the extension of an abandoned non-conforming use. The application pertained to allowing the continued use of a detached structure as a family dwelling. The discussion involved the condition of the structure, including planned renovations and compliance with current codes, as well as details about rental fees and square footage.