Commission approves rezoning for Walter Hill Church of Christ expansion in Lebanon

The Rutherford County Planning Commission convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss several key items, with a significant focus on a rezoning request from the Walter Hill Church of Christ. The meeting highlighted the church's plans to expand its facilities, reflecting the growing needs of the community.

The church, located at 7277 Lebanon Pike, is seeking to increase its worship seating capacity from 400 to 550. This expansion involves reconfiguring the existing worship space and adding a 4,000 square foot fellowship hall. The proposal was prompted by the church's desire to accommodate a larger congregation, which necessitated a change in zoning from its current designation to institutional. This change is crucial as community assembly uses exceeding 500 occupants are classified as large assembly uses, which are not permitted under the current zoning regulations.

During the meeting, representatives from the church explained their plans, emphasizing that the expansion is not a redevelopment but rather an enhancement of their existing facilities. The church's elder, Brian Bird, addressed the commission, detailing the modifications to the auditorium and the addition of the fellowship hall. He confirmed that the church has sufficient parking to meet county requirements, which stipulate one parking space for every five seats.

The Planning Commission staff recommended approval of the rezoning request, noting that the expansion aligns with community needs. The commission members engaged in a brief discussion, with one member inquiring about the anticipated increase in church attendance as a result of the expansion.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the rezoning request, which was seconded and passed without opposition. This decision marks a significant step for the Walter Hill Church of Christ, allowing it to better serve its growing congregation and the surrounding community. The next steps will involve the submission of a site plan for the proposed addition, which will also require review by the Planning Commission.