Explosives storage proposal sparks community discussion

In a recent government meeting, the board approved a variance request for a residential property that will allow the construction of a sunroom atop an existing deck. The proposal, presented by Jerry Simon of Garner Construction, was met with no opposition during the public comment period. The board unanimously voted in favor of the motion, confirming that the project would not expand the property's footprint.

The meeting also addressed a significant request from Dino Noble, representing Bobby Parton, to utilize a 149-acre property on Chicken Road for the storage and sales of explosives. This site has a long history of such operations, dating back to the 1970s, and the new ownership aims to maintain its legacy status while making improvements for employee working conditions. Noble emphasized that the business, which supplies construction and mining customers, is heavily regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Department of Transportation (DOT).

The board discussed the importance of the grandfathered status of the property, which could be jeopardized if the boundaries were altered. Noble assured the board that no changes to the property lines were planned, and the improvements would focus on enhancing employee facilities, including the installation of a modular office and necessary utilities.

The board expressed satisfaction with the proposed measures and the adherence to safety regulations, ultimately recommending approval for the explosives operation to proceed to the planning commission for further review.