Planning commission approves long-easement variance for Oak Valley Plantation parcel

The Lexington County Planning Commission approved variances requested by Oak Valley Plantation LLC that would allow a 7.94-acre parcel to be accessed by a 4,366-foot easement from Gator Road, exceeding the county's standard maximum easement length.

Staff described the parcel and reviewed the access-policy items that require relief, including the maximum length of an access easement and the separation distance from Lumberjack Drive. The presenter summarized the property's history, including a 1996 street-naming petition that labeled the spur Oak Valley Drive but did not approve it as a public roadway.

Applicant Jacob Cook told the commission he and his family currently own the larger tract and that the portion being platted would be a third home on the property. "I live at 128 Scarlet Oak Way in Lexington right now," Cook said, noting his parents currently occupy the principal home and that the driveway is asphalt up to the plat. When asked whether further subdivision was likely, Cook said he is "the last one for the next 30 years" and does not expect near-term additional subdivision.

Commissioners discussed whether a private-road approach might be more appropriate if the large tract were subdivided more extensively in the future, but staff said the current application is limited to the requested plat and the lender's requirement that title be in the borrower's name.

Chair moved to approve the variance based on unique historical conditions and the practical difficulties of meeting modern proximity and length requirements; the motion was seconded and passed on a unanimous roll call.

Staff will proceed with processing the plat and recording requirements; commissioners asked staff to consider long-term implications if additional subdivision occurs on the larger tract.