The Board of Zoning Appeals for the City of Spring Hill, Tennessee, convened on April 15, 2025, to discuss a special use application for a property previously occupied by a KFC restaurant. The meeting focused on the proposed use of the site for a Whataburger, with representatives from Kimley Horn present to address the board.

The board began by reviewing the criteria for evaluating special use applications, emphasizing that each request must be assessed individually against the standards outlined in the Unified Development Code (UDC). Staff findings indicated that the proposed use aligns with the comprehensive plan, specifically the designation of the area as a community commerce zone. The C4 District, where the property is located, is intended for higher intensity mixed-use commercial activities, and the proposed use was deemed consistent with this intent.

Key points discussed included the compatibility of the proposed use with surrounding properties, the adequacy of public infrastructure to support the new establishment, and the assurance that the special use would not jeopardize public health or safety. The site was noted to have sufficient utility infrastructure, as it was previously a drive-through restaurant, and the building's size would remain unchanged.

Staff recommended approval of the application, BZA 16 18-20 24, subject to two conditions: the submission of an updated site plan to the planning department prior to review by the planning commission, and the stipulation that the special use would expire one year from the date of approval unless further action was taken.

Following the presentation, board members engaged in a brief discussion, with one member clarifying the nature of the application and the board's quasi-judicial role in the decision-making process. The chair then moved to adopt the staff's findings and approve the application, which received unanimous support from the board.

In conclusion, the Board of Zoning Appeals successfully approved the special use application for the Whataburger, marking a significant step in the redevelopment of the site and contributing to the community commerce landscape of Spring Hill. The next steps will involve the planning commission's review of the updated site plan.