1991 - 01-22-91 Regular Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Chairman ask0 ed theLmemb i3 rof APPlanning Board to come forward and welcomed their newest member, Mr. Sherrill Normann, Jr. Following a presentation of the property in question by Mr. Barefoot, Chairman Stafford invited those wishing to speak in favor of the request to address the Boards. Mr. Edward L. Bullard, Jr., attorney for Waylon Jackson, stated that Mr. Jackson currently has a produce stand on the northwestern side of Jefferson Davis Highway. The neighborhood in that vicinity is becoming commercial and US Highway 1 is heavily traveled. Mr. Jackson wishes to locate a restaurant at the site in conjunction with the produce stand. Since the public hearing has been advertised, he has received no calls or letters objecting to the proposed rezoning; two individuals have contacted him favoring the proposal. The change would create an increase in tax values for the site and the surrounding properties. No new homes have been built in the area since 1959. As properties in that area are sold, their uses are changing to commercial use. There is very little agricultural use in this neighborhood now. The rezoning request would be in the best interest of the community and Lee County. Commercial zoning would be the best use of this property. Mr. Barefoot informed the Boards that this request is not a conditional use request; therefore, the property use would not be limited to a restaurant. Any use allowed in a Highway Commercial District would be permissible on this property if rezoned. There being no one present to speak in opposition to the request, the floor was opened for discussion by the Boards. Commissioner Wicker asked what effect the change would have on the agricultural community in that area. Mr. Barefoot stated that most of the three acres is used for storage for his produce business. Mr. Bullard stated that the surrounding properties have not been used for agricultural purposes in several years. Commissioner Wicker asked why others in the area have not requested a rezoning petition for their property. Mr. Bullard stated that no one has wished to change the use of their property, so there has been no need to apply for a rezoning request. Ms. Mary Jo Parks of the Planning Board asked if the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance would take effect prior to this rezoning request. Mr. Barefoot stated that once the amendments are adopted, this situation would be applicable. There being no further discussion, Commissioner Cox moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner Hall seconded the motion, and upon a vote, the results were as follows: Aye: Cox, Hall, Matthews, Paschal, Reives, Stafford, and Wicker Nay: None Chairman Stafford ruled the motion adopted unanimously. 4