Zoning Change Sparks Controversy Over Future Development Plans

In a recent government meeting, the commission reviewed two significant rezoning requests that could impact local land use and development patterns.

The first request involved a property located in planning district 35, where the applicant, Kim Johnson, sought to rezone approximately 0.4 acres from Residential Single Family (RSF 1) to Rural Residential (RR). The property, situated south of Keller Road and west of Hilton Road in Foley, is currently used for commercial purposes, specifically an existing plumbing shop that has operated for over 40 years. The applicant aims to add an accessory structure to the property, which has been subject to a stop work order due to construction without proper permits. Staff recommended approval of the rezoning, noting that the change aligns with the master plan and would not adversely affect traffic patterns. The commission unanimously approved the motion to recommend the rezoning.

The second case involved a request from Corn Branch LLC to rezone 5.7 acres from Rural Agricultural (RA) to RSF 1 in planning district 14, located east of Blueberry Lane and north of Vasco Road in Silver Hill. The applicant, Hunter Smith, intends to rezone this portion for residential use. Staff found that the proposed change is compatible with the existing development pattern, which consists of single-family homes on large lots. Although concerns were raised by a neighboring property owner about potential future developments, the commission clarified that any further subdivision would require a separate public hearing. Staff also recommended approval for this request, citing minimal expected impacts on traffic.

Both cases reflect ongoing discussions about land use and zoning in the county, highlighting the balance between residential needs and maintaining the character of existing neighborhoods.