Board of Adjustment 10/23/25

Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap: October 23, 2025

On October 23, 2025, the Board of Adjustment convened to review and decide on several requests for variances from Montreat's zoning regulations. The meeting, attended by Board members and interested parties, focused primarily on addressing unique challenges presented by existing properties and accommodating modern living needs within the community. The Board’s decisions will impact property owners seeking to expand or replace structures, and residents concerned about potential impacts on their neighborhoods.

The meeting began with standard procedural matters, including a moment of silence and confirmation that the Board had sufficient members present to conduct business. The agenda was approved, and minutes from the previous meeting were adopted. A key point of discussion centered around ensuring transparency: Board members acknowledged the need to review and adhere to conflict-of-interest procedures, a process that will be prioritized in future meetings. The Board also briefly addressed the need for disclosure of any "ex parte" communications, which are conversations with interested parties outside of public meetings.

The core of the meeting involved reviewing three separate variance requests, all pertaining to setback requirements – the distances properties must be from roads and neighboring structures. In the first case, a variance was approved for 536 Calvin Trail (Grant Dasher Property) to reduce a side setback, allowing for an expansion of an existing dwelling used to house church guests. The Board found that the request met established criteria and would not negatively impact the community. Similarly, a variance was approved for 428 South Carolina Terrace (Albert & Lucy Robinson Property), enabling the construction of a new single-family dwelling that addresses an existing encroachment and improves accessibility with an elevator. Finally, the Board approved a variance for 438 Kentucky Road (Philip Jung Property) to facilitate an expansion including a garage and additional living space designed for aging-in-place. In each instance, the Board considered applicant presentations and weighed potential impacts on neighbors.

During a period for public comments, a resident from South Carolina Terrace voiced concerns about potential stormwater runoff and hillside stability related to the proposed construction at 428 South Carolina Terrace. The Board acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing that all projects must comply with stormwater management regulations and hillside development ordinances. This highlights the ongoing commitment to ensuring responsible construction practices within Montreat.

Looking ahead, these approved variances will now proceed through administrative reviews by town staff to ensure compliance with all applicable ordinances. The Board reiterated the importance of adhering to conflict-of-interest guidelines, emphasizing transparency and fairness in all future deliberations. The meeting underscored the complexities of navigating Montreat’s zoning regulations, particularly when dealing with established properties and unique topographical challenges. Residents can expect to see these projects move forward as they navigate the final approval stages with town staff.

For more detailed information, please refer to the official meeting transcript and related documents available from the Board of Adjustment.