Zoning board hears special‑use request to create one new dwelling site with shared well

Tom Swenson appeared before the Tazewell County Zoning Board seeking a special‑use permit to establish one new dwelling site on about one acre in an A‑1 agricultural district to give to his daughter and son‑in‑law.

Land‑use staff reported that soils on the parcel rate approximately 110 (below the county threshold of 125 for prime farmland), and staff said a single‑family residence there is consistent in character with surrounding properties. The health department noted that parcels under five acres require soil testing and well/septic permitting prior to installation, although Swenson told the board the new dwelling would use a shared well. Swenson said he had spoken with a contractor who expects adequate water availability on the existing well and that the Elm Grove Township road commissioner had approved a driveway entrance. Staff recommended approval of the special use pending final building‑permit review of dimensional standards and confirmation of required health‑department permits.

Board members asked about drainage and possible standing water; Swenson said the property has some low, moist areas and that he mows and bales hay rather than actively farming. The transcript does not record a final zoning board decision in the provided excerpt; as a Class B special‑use for which the zoning board has final authority, the board will act after completing deliberations.