Agent wins setback variance (VR 26 12) to clear title on Hubbell Cove property

David James, the agent for the property, told members that the original developer never completed a planned cul-de-sac in 1973, and that a title company flagged the resulting encroachment when a buyer went under contract. "The front porch is about a foot and a half away from that cul de sac," James said, and he asked the panel to accept a setback variance so title can be cleared and the pending sale can proceed.

James gave his address in Jonesboro and said the home has been owned by the current seller about four or five years; he described the buyer as intending to use the property as a primary residence rather than an investment. Staff told the group the quickest remedy to clear title is the variance, but recommended the owner pursue abandonment of the unused right-of-way so the building line would match the roadbed rather than leaving the porch inches from the traveled way. The agent noted a water main near the road that could limit front-yard changes.

A committee member moved to place variance VR 26 12 on the floor for a vote; the motion was seconded and a roll call was taken. The record shows affirmative responses recorded by the chair and the item advanced and was approved. The meeting then closed.

Note on spelling: the transcript alternately refers to the road name as "Hubbell Cove" and "Hobel Cove." The agent verbally identified the area as Hubbell Cove; this article uses "Hubbell Cove" and flags the alternate spelling in the record.