The LaPorte Board of Zoning Appeals approved the first step to turn the 116-acre Briar Leaf Golf Course into a single-family subdivision.

At its December 9 meeting, the board granted Lennar Homes three variances allowing smaller lot widths, reduced side yards, and smaller first-floor square footage.

Attorney Bill Nelson said homes will still exceed 1,500 square feet, lots will stay above the 5,000-square-foot minimum, and all homes will meet building codes. He added the new homes should match or exceed nearby property values.