BZA approves larger barn and extra height for Cicero property after neighbor raises road‑maintenance concerns

Craig Bowen received approval Sept. 17 from the Cicero Jackson Township Board of Zoning Appeals to build a larger barn and to exceed the 18‑foot maximum accessory‑structure height at his property (BZA‑0926‑34‑R3 and BZA‑0926‑35‑R3). The board voted 3–0 to approve both variances after the petitioner described a proposed addition tied into an existing barn and said the increase was needed to accommodate a 14‑foot door for tall RVs and boats.

Neighbor Jeff Lingenfelder spoke during public comment, saying he is not opposed to the building itself but is concerned about increased traffic on a private easement and that the petitioner has not contributed to prior road maintenance. Lingenfelder asked what guarantees the town can require that the road will be maintained; the board replied that private easement maintenance disputes are not within the BZA’s authority. Lingenfelder stated: "I'm not opposed to the building... but I want to guarantee that road's going to be maintained."

Bowen responded that the use is intended for personal storage and not commercial rental. The board’s motions included explicit conditions recorded on the record: the petitioner represented there will be no commercial business or storage rentals at the site, and the petitioner stated an intent to begin construction promptly and complete work prior to winter. The motions passed on roll call votes of 3–0 (Steve Zel moved; Mark Thomas seconded).