Board of Appeals Grants Variance for Project in Prairie Ace Estates

The Effingham City Zoning Board of Appeals has voted to grant a variance in size and height requirements for an accessory building in Prairie Ace Estates, the residential subdivision being developed near Effingham Country Club. The property is located at 13190 Augusta National Drive.

Andy St. John requested the variance for a 2,320 square foot structure that will be 24-feet in height. Normal limits are a 1,200 square foot structure with a 20-foot height limit. St. John plans to use the accessory building to house lawn care equipment and a trailer and camper.

The request for the variance was first considered at the Board of Appeals meeting in May, but Board members hesitated to act on the matter until signs were posted to let neighbors know the matter was being considered as is City practice on such matters. St. John also utilized the delay to contact neighboring property owners who indicated they were not opposed to the project.

Board of Appeals members discussed at the May meeting that St. John's lawn care business could be classified as a home business with the implication that employees would not be allowed to park there.