The Woodbury City Council unanimously denied a variance request Tuesday that would have allowed a property owner to subdivide his 6.1-acre lot into two parcels smaller than the required minimum size.

Nick Johnson had requested permission to split his property at 7086 Military Road into two lots of approximately 2.5 acres each, exclusive of wetlands. City code requires a minimum of 3 acres for properties in the R2 single-family estate district that rely on well and septic systems.

Johnson argued the wetland on his property creates unique circumstances, as it divides his land and renders the western portion inaccessible. "It literally takes away half of my value," Johnson told the council during the public hearing. He said the wetland prevents him from accessing 2.5 acres of his property without crossing county roads or the wetland itself.

City staff and the Planning Commission recommended denial, finding the request did not meet the required criteria for granting a variance. Community Development Director Eric Searles noted that wetlands are not unique in Woodbury, with over 50 properties in the R2 district affected by similar conditions. Staff also cited concerns about setting precedent and access management issues, as the proposed new lot would require access from Woodlane Drive.

The council expressed sympathy for Johnson's situation but emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent standards. "There's got to be a line of black and white somewhere and this is where the line is drawn," said Council Member Kim Wilson. Mayor Anne Burt noted that while the decision was difficult, the council must follow established guidelines to ensure consistency in city decisions.