Sussex zoning variance paves way for redevelopment

GEORGETOWN — Having torn down an old residence and paying for a new one to be installed on their lot, William and Vicki Abel were surprised to find that their plan isn’t in line with Sussex County code, particularly after being issued a permit for the work by the county.

“Unfortunately, the applicants learned, after purchasing their new manufactured home at a cost of $115,000 approximately, that their lot was more than 10,000 square feet — specifically, 10,204 square feet,” Mackenzie Peet, an attorney representing the Abels, told the county Board of Adjustments during its Monday meeting.

Regulations allow for small lots that provide 5-foot setbacks on side yards, which the Abels and their contractor believed they had. But, because of the extra 204 square feet, the code requires 15-foot setbacks.

Prior to the adjustment being unanimously approved by the board, Ms. Peet explained that existing structures on the lot, like a shed and a garage, limit the home’s placement options, so reorienting the dwelling on the parcel can’t be done.

The new home is larger and a different shape than the older building, also limiting its placement.

Janice Tunnel, president of the neighborhood’s informal homeowners association, said she was in support of an adjustment to the code’s rule.

“This is great. We are changing the development and bringing in new houses,” said Ms. Tunnel, who was joined by six other neighbors in favor of the change.

No one spoke out against.

“It’s just nice to see we’re replacing the old trailers and putting in new homes at a pretty good pace. Unfortunately, because our lots are so small, you’re going to find more and more people coming for variances,” she continued.

Ms. Tunnel described the neighborhood’s history as a “little fishing community that people used in the summertime,” but now, it’s full of year-round residents.

“I’m in full support of their house, and I can’t wait for it to be built,” she said.

Ms. Peet advised that the new structure is paid for and was sitting off-site waiting for the variance to be approved.