In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed rezoning of a property located at 674 Western Drive from a Buffer Business Suburban District (B-1) to a Community Business Suburban District (B-3). The application, presented by property owners Jerry Burberry and Burtzer Van, aims to establish an automotive body shop on the site, which has been vacant and in disrepair for some time.

The owners emphasized that the proposed body shop would not store vehicles on-site unless they were actively being worked on, addressing concerns about potential clutter and unsightliness. The area surrounding the property features a mix of businesses and residences, with existing B-1 zoning to the north and south.

Commissioners were presented with seven findings of fact and two conditions to consider regarding the rezoning. During the meeting, a public comment from Richard Henderson raised questions about the zoning map and the proximity of B-3 properties, prompting a discussion about the historical context of the zoning in the area. It was noted that the B-1 properties on the east side of Western Drive were rezoned in 1980 following a study that recommended the change due to numerous variance requests.

Feedback from a public meeting held prior to the commission's discussion indicated that local residents were generally supportive of the cleanup and renovation of the property, which had previously been neglected. However, there was a strong desire among attendees to ensure that the new business did not resemble a junkyard, with the owners expressing willingness to self-restrict operations to maintain the aesthetic of the area.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to revitalize the property and accommodate local businesses, with interest from various small enterprises looking to establish themselves in the community. The commission will continue to deliberate on the rezoning proposal, weighing the potential benefits against community concerns.