Walmart seeks approval for groundbreaking drone delivery service

During a recent council meeting, members discussed a proposal from Walmart seeking a special use permit (SUP) for drone delivery services at their location on State Highway 78, adjacent to the public safety building. This request is necessary due to the absence of specific zoning regulations governing drone operations in the area.

The property is categorized within the regional commercial sector, which generally accommodates such business activities. Notices were sent to 17 property owners regarding the proposal, resulting in one supportive response and no opposition. The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the matter and voted 4 to 1 in favor of recommending approval.

Council members clarified that their jurisdiction is limited to the usage of the property itself, while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees the operational aspects of drone flights, including their paths over businesses, homes, and roadways.

Mark Bergman, representing Walmart's drone delivery business team, presented the company's rationale for the initiative. He emphasized Walmart's historical commitment to meeting community needs, noting a shift from serving primarily rural areas to addressing the demands of a national customer base. Bergman highlighted the evolving nature of consumer purchasing habits and the potential benefits of drone delivery in enhancing service efficiency.

The council is expected to deliberate further on the proposal, with the possibility of a decision in the coming weeks.