Plan commission approves minor subdivision and rezoning for 14.75‑acre Highway 43 parcel

The Owen County Plan Commission on Thursday approved a minor subdivision and recommended changing zoning on a 14.75‑acre parcel along Highway 43 to allow four residential lots for the landowner’s family.

Roger, who said his father Don owns the property, told the commission he plans to divide the parcel “into four different pieces for my children to build houses on.” He said the site has highway access and that soil scientists completed septic testing.

Staff opened a public hearing and read notice requirements under Indiana law, including IC 36‑7‑6‑604 and IC 5‑3‑1, confirming that required notices and a posting had been completed. Becky Brown, who identified herself as the owner of the county home, offered a brief public comment noting a nearby dog rescue and occasional barking but raised no formal objection.

Commission discussion covered driveway access, survey easements and septic approval. After public comment closed, Donna moved to approve both the minor subdivision and the zoning change as requested; Daniel seconded. A member announced an abstention because of a personal connection to Roger; the motion nevertheless carried by voice vote. Staff explained that final adoption of any zoning change rests with the county commissioners and that the commission’s action is a recommendation to them.

The commission also noted the final plat and certain administrative tasks remain; staff said the subdivision approval is effective pending the rezoning process before the board of commissioners.

Action at a glance: the plan commission approved the minor subdivision and recommended the zoning change to residential; final rezoning decision will be made by the Owen County commissioners.