Board of Adjustment Meeting | Jan. 14, 2026

Buncombe County Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap – January 14, 2026

The Buncombe County Board of Adjustment convened on January 14, 2026, to address a single significant matter: Variance Application ZPH 2025-00032, concerning a property located at 90 Hazelwood Road. This meeting provided an opportunity for the Board to review a request from Pilar Villa, seeking a reduction in the required setback distance for a mobile home construction project. The meeting was attended by Ms. Villa (represented by Walter Lucas of Titan Factory Direct), concerned neighbor Ms. Chrissy Lytle, and Buncombe County staff.

The core of the discussion revolved around Ms. Villa’s request to reduce the required setback for her mobile home from 10 feet to 4 feet. The need for this variance arose due to an error discovered in a previously approved site plan review, which had incorrectly identified the property’s setback line. Mr. Lucas argued that denying the variance would create a significant financial hardship for Ms. Villa, stemming from existing loan commitments and hindering her ability to access her property. However, Ms. Lytle asserted standing as a neighboring property owner and voiced concerns about the potential impact of the reduced setback on her own property, citing issues related to access, erosion control, and overall safety.

County staff confirmed the initial site plan review error, noting that it failed to account for an existing right-of-way. They also pointed out that the building permit associated with the project had expired, adding to the complexity of the situation. The Board engaged in a thorough deliberation process, carefully weighing the applicant’s claims of financial hardship against the concerns raised by Ms. Lytle and considering supporting documentation, including photographs and a petition signed by neighboring residents. Ultimately, the Board determined that granting the variance was consistent with the spirit and intent of the zoning ordinance, particularly given the circumstances surrounding the initial approval error.

Following extensive discussion and consideration of all viewpoints, the Board of Adjustment unanimously approved Variance Application ZPH 2025-00032. This decision allows Ms. Villa’s mobile home construction project to proceed with the requested setback reduction. It's important for residents to understand that this approval stems from a recognized error in the County’s initial site plan review, and acknowledges the concerns raised by neighboring property owners.

Looking ahead, the Buncombe County government will now draft an official order formally documenting the Board’s decision. County staff will also ensure that all conditions associated with the variance are clearly defined and strictly adhered to throughout the construction process. This case highlights the importance of accurate initial assessments and demonstrates the Board of Adjustment’s role in addressing unforeseen circumstances within the zoning process.