Escambia Board of Adjustment Approves Setback Variance for Small Lot Construction

In a brief meeting, the Escambia Board of Adjustment approved a variance request allowing reduced setbacks for the construction of a new home on a small lot in the Warrington area. The board also welcomed new member John Taylor and elected a chair and vice-chair.

The most significant item discussed was the approval of a variance request from Sher Hartford Morris. Morris sought permission to reduce the setbacks on her 50 by 50-foot lot to build a single-family dwelling. The board heard that the property was originally part of a larger 1931 platted lot, which has since been subdivided, creating a unique challenge for rebuilding on the site. Board members learned that a previous structure on the property had to be demolished due to its poor condition, and the proposed new construction aims to make reasonable use of the land while conforming to neighborhood norms. The Board of Adjustment staff recommended approval, stating that the variance was necessary to overcome practical difficulties arising from the lot’s small size. Morris, intending to gift the property to her nephew for his first home, expressed gratitude for the board’s consideration. The variance was approved with a unanimous vote.

In other business, the board swore in new member John Taylor and elected a chair and vice-chair. The board opted to proceed with the leadership selection despite one member’s absence. The current vice-chair was elected as chair, and another member nominated themselves for the vice-chair position, both receiving unanimous approval.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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