[AUG. 12, 2005] Seped Karim thought he did everything right
when he purchased property for development in the Stonebridge
subdivision. The property plat to build had been approved under the
original developer. He built two condominiums. He bought more
adjacent property to build more condominiums. He's come to his last
building and received notice from the city that he cannot build it.
So when he came before the council on Tuesday evening he wanted to
know, "What changed?"
City building inspector and zoning officer
Les Last said that it seems there was an oversight that was just
recently caught. The street leading to that property and other homes
in the area does not meet city code, as it is only 14 feet wide. The
code says 23 feet. The city is bound by law to enforce its codes.
The 23-foot width is important because it allows enough space for
emergency vehicles to access homes in the area.
Fire Chief Bucky Washam was consulted and said that he could get
some firetrucks in there and even turn around if needed, but one or
two of the vehicles might be too big.
It seems the road lost its regulation width after the original
plans and plat were approved. The initial developer, Mark Cattleman,
went broke, and the properties went back to the bank.
A house that went in later put a fence down the middle of where
the street should be. No variance to do that is on record.
The subdivision and the road in question were annexed into city
limits after they were built.
If Karim is to build on his last parcel, which is on a corner
with a fire hydrant, he will also have to contend with water lines.
He said that he's ready to do that. "Work with me," he said to
the council.
He asked the council for suggestions of what he could possibly
do. He wondered if there could be a different emergency access
developed off the Memorial Park side. He asked if he could adjust
his plans, maybe build a smaller building, do something so he didn't
lose all the value of his investment.
Mayor Beth Davis said that he should sit down with Last to see
what might be done.
City attorney Bill Bates said that Karim would need to ask for a
variance and recommended that he take some steps to retain a lawyer
knowledgeable in the subject area to assist him.
