Residents oppose Saint Martin Orthodox Church expansion citing environmental and community concerns

During the recent Benton County Planning Commission meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the expansion of the Saint Martin Orthodox Church, which has disrupted the tranquility of the surrounding neighborhood. A resident, who has lived in the area since 1957, expressed deep-rooted ties to the community and highlighted the rural character of the neighborhood, which is home to various wildlife and has fostered strong relationships among residents.

The resident pointed out that seven out of ten property owners living near the church have submitted letters voicing serious concerns about the church's expansion. They argued that the staff report prepared for the meeting did not adequately address these concerns, particularly regarding traffic, noise, and groundwater consumption. The resident urged the commissioners to deny the request for a change in property designation to a conforming use, emphasizing that the church was originally permitted as a conditional use, which aligns with current zoning codes.

The resident also raised alarms about groundwater issues, noting that several wells in the area have required redrilling due to aquifer drawdown, which poses a financial burden on residents. They requested that the county conduct further assessments of the groundwater situation, referencing a previous groundwater survey conducted by an engineering firm.

The meeting underscored the tension between community development and the preservation of neighborhood character, as residents seek to protect their quality of life against potential overdevelopment. The Planning Commission is expected to consider these concerns carefully as they deliberate on the church's expansion and its implications for the community.