COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals reversed themselves on Wednesday night and approved a pair of variance requests from Cheryl Ann Drive property owners Joseph and Sarah Renshaw
The requests have generated a lot of discussion during recent Z.B.A. meetings. The first hearing on September 29 lasted almost two hours and led to the requests being denied. The Renshaws later filed an appeal of the Z.B.A.’s decision in Branch County Circuit Court.
City Planner Dean Walrack said last month a rehearing had to be held on Wednesday because there were not enough regular Z.B.A. members present during the September meeting.
The Renshaws were seeking a two foot height variance and a characteristic variance to install privacy fencing at their west front yard right-of-way line.
The city’s zoning ordinance limits front yard fencing to four feet six inches in height and 50 percent opacity.
After Wednesday night’s nearly 90 minute discussion, board member Joe Hayes motioned for approval with conditions.
The motion also stated that special conditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the property.
Hayes pointed out a majority of neighboring property owners supported the Renshaws.
The Renshaws said their goal was to maximize a usable play area for a growing family while maintaining a reasonable degree of privacy and safety.
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