Benton County Planning Commission reviews Saint Martin Church expansion appeal

The Benton County Planning Commission convened on April 8, 2025, to address a significant public hearing regarding an appeal of the planning official's decision concerning the Saint Martin Orthodox Church. The church is seeking conditional use approval for an expansion that includes a new parish hall, a parsonage, and a request to make the church a conforming use under current zoning laws.

The meeting began with a confirmation of audio connectivity for remote participants, followed by an outline of the hearing process. The commission emphasized the importance of adhering to Benton County Development Code and the necessity for all testimony to be relevant and respectful.

The staff report was presented by planner Petra Sheets, who detailed the church's history and its transition from a permitted use to a legal nonconforming use due to zoning changes in 2014. Sheets noted that the proposed expansion would not significantly interfere with adjacent properties and that the church had met all necessary parking and environmental health requirements.

Concerns raised by nearby property owners regarding noise, traffic, and water impacts were acknowledged, but the commission determined that the expansion would not exacerbate these issues. The church's plans include adequate on-site parking and a new sewage disposal area, which will be subject to further management requirements during the building permit review process.

The commission will continue to evaluate the application, considering both the staff report and any public testimony submitted during the hearing. The outcome of this appeal could have implications for the church's operations and the surrounding community, as it seeks to align its use with current zoning regulations.