Adams County Board approves Knott Trust shoreland grading exception with erosion-control condition

The Adams County Board of Adjustment approved a special-exception to allow filling and grading on steep shoreland slopes for the Joseph M. and Bonnie A. Knott Revocable Trusts at 846 Manchester Court (Lot 16, Manchester Addition to Lake Camelot), subject to conditions requiring a stormwater management/erosion-control plan during construction.

Staff member (speaker 2) introduced the application under section 3-96-25-A-2 of the Adams County Shoreland Wetland and Habitat Protection Ordinance and noted the applicant submitted detailed plans including elevations and surveys; the town of Rome informed the county on April 16 that it did not object to the request. Staff said no DNR comment had been received by the meeting.

The applicant (speaker 7) explained the work is a major remodel to create a walkout basement to improve accessibility for aging family members and confirmed the intent is residential use, not short-term rental. Board members asked for clarification on erosion-control measures during construction. Staff recommended (and board members agreed) to condition the approval on a stormwater management plan while work is under way, including silt fences or equivalent temporary controls to protect the lake.

After adding the erosion-control condition, the board voted to accept the application and authorized staff to process the permit with the condition in place. Staff advised the applicant to work with county staff (including Tyler) on required protective measures and to submit the erosion-control plan before construction begins.