Planning commission approves easement for Bales family to access backlot

The Henry County Planning Commission approved an easement variance for the Bales family (case 2352) so they can build a house on a parcel that lacks road frontage.

Angela Bales told commissioners the family needs to build on the land to care for her mother and a sister with special needs and to keep the family together after her father’s illness and death earlier this year. “I want to be able to be there to be able to help, provide for mom and take care of the land,” she said. She added that the household includes three young daughters and that the family wants to live on the property together.

County staff explained the parcel was created after nearby lots were combined and that the subdivision did not finish a road through the area; staff said Ashton’s survey shows an easement corridor and that no neighbor letters of objection were received. Commissioners asked about survey measurements and the distance between the proposed easement and an adjacent house owned by the Stokes family; staff said the survey indicates a narrow corridor but the precise house-to-line distance was not shown on materials available at the meeting.

Commissioner Marsha Gratner made the motion to approve the requested variance; Commissioner David Fischer seconded. The commission approved the variance by voice vote with no members objecting. Staff advised the applicants to coordinate further details with Tom Green’s office before construction.

The applicants were told to follow up with county staff for final survey and permitting steps.