County grants several driveway variances, denies one at an intersection

The Noble County Board approved several driveway variances on June 25 after staff reviews found drainage and sight-distance issues could be mitigated.

Commissioners approved permit NCD 04-040-26 for a Granite Ridge driveway with a variance for deficient sight distance provided the property owner pays for and installs a "hidden drive" warning sign. Grand Ridge project manager Jeff Sword argued the proposed location improved safety for the family, and county staff recommended the variance with the signage mitigation. "We'd recommend motion to approve the driveway with variance with the requirement that a 'hidden drive' sign be installed at the cost of the owner," staff said; the board approved the motion by voice vote.

The board also approved driveway variance permit 068-26 for Jerry and Connie Booker and permit 067-26 for Ryan Boyd after staff confirmed other requirements (drainage, clearance) were met. By contrast, the request for permit 027-26 from Alan Friels to convert a farm-field entrance at the intersection of 75 East and East Line Road into a residential driveway was denied because staff and commissioners concluded the requested location was effectively in the intersection and posed a safety hazard.

Staff advised applicants that routine permits that meet sight-distance and drainage standards may be administratively approved and that variance requests are handled when requirements cannot be met. The applicants and project representatives were present for discussion; the board voted on each permit by voice vote and approved or denied them accordingly.