City Council Approves Controversial Horse Barn Permit

In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed a proposal for a special use permit (SUP) to construct a 3,328 square foot horse barn at 844 Keller Smithfield Road. The barn, which would have an average height of 19 feet 10 inches, is intended for the care of two privately owned horses and will not be used for commercial purposes.

The property is zoned SF-36, which allows for accessory structures, but the proposed barn exceeds the 1,200 square foot limit for such structures and the maximum height of 15 feet. The applicant's site plan indicates that the barn will be located behind the existing home, approximately 15 feet from the northern property line and 430 feet from the western property line. The design includes stone and hardy board siding, with a peak height of 30 feet.

During the public hearing, the city mailed out 32 notification letters to nearby property owners, receiving only one letter of opposition. Support for the barn was expressed by a local resident, who noted the lack of significant opposition from neighbors. The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the request.

Council members raised questions regarding the barn's design, which includes a tack room and a feeding/medicine area that some perceived as resembling a living space. The applicant clarified that these areas are intended for practical use related to horse care and not for habitation. The upper floor of the barn will be used for storage and will not be suitable for living.

The council has several options regarding the SUP request, including approval as submitted, approval with modifications, tabling the item, or denial. The discussion highlighted the community's interest in maintaining the area's low-density character while accommodating the applicant's needs for horse care.