Call to order

The meeting of the West Columbia Board of Appeals was called to order at 6 pm June 17. All members were present: Chairman Fred H. Carter, J.W. Hendrix, Jimmy Hook, Richard Kuppens, and Robert H. Monts.

Public hearing

The hearing concerned a special exception to increase the maximum height of the home of Brink and Meg Hinson at 126 Congaree Park Drive (located in a C- 3 District) from 40 feet to 44 feet. Zoning Administrator Brian Carter began the presentation by describing the Congaree Park Drive area. He reminded the board that in a C- 3 District, the maximum height of a home can be no more than 40 feet, unless a special exception is made. He explained that utility lines currently prevent the applicants from digging and making space to adjust their driveway and add a basement. He noted if the special exception request was rejected by the board, the basic look of the home would not change. Carter emphasized that a special exception is different from a variance. A variance is requested when the property owner has a unique hardship. A special exception allows the board to consider the impact on other property owners, traffic patterns and other factors.

Brink Hinson continued the presentation, emphasizing that 85% of his home is already in compliance except for a portion of the driveway. He told the board that he and his wife only have one driveway and that the work he is requesting approval for will not negatively affect his neighbors.

Hinson's contractor, Mike Beecken, addressed the slope of the driveway and the electrical issues. Board member Kuppens asked if the board approved the request, would they be setting a precedent for other homes on Congaree Park. Beeken and Hinson both said no because of the uniqueness of the lot.

Chairman Carter noted the Board had received several letters from the community in support of Brink and Meg Hinson's request. Seeing no one wishing to speak in opposition, Chairman Carter called for a vote. The board approved the special exception request unanimously.