A villager unaware that he is allowing the rule to gain a gap to build a bridge to take advantage of his “remaining years”

An 81-year-old villager who said he was unaware of a permit requirement has been granted a waiver to build a terrace in his home to enjoy his “remaining years”.

Andrew Richardson appeared before the Lady Lake Planning and Zoning Board on Monday evening in his bid to build the deck of his home at 1620 Pinehurst St. in the village of Orange Blossom Garden.

Richardson’s plan had been approved by The Villages architectural review board.

“I thought I was ready to go,” Richardson said.

However, his contractor, Patriot Builders, informed Richardson that he also had to go through the permitting process in the town of Lady Lake. When Richardson did this, it was discovered that the plan for the 10ft by 10ft bridge called for the structure to exceed 60% of the rate of impermeable surface of the ground. Therefore, he was required to get the variance to go ahead with the project.

Richardson said he and his wife “lost everything” in the 2009 stock market crash. However, they worked hard and started Estate Sales by Andy & Kathy, a business in The Villages.

The Indiana couple now just want to sit on the deck and enjoy the sunrises and sunsets, he said.

The cost of the bridge is $2,850.

The planning and zoning board approved the variance. The final decision will rest with the Lady Lake Commission.