Whitlock Family seeks rezoning for vehicle storage at Bridal Mill Road

Under the bright lights of the Walton County Planning Commission meeting, community members gathered to discuss significant zoning changes that could reshape local businesses and services. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as two key proposals took center stage, each promising to enhance the area’s commercial landscape.

The first proposal came from Jody and Ted Whitlock, who sought to rezone two acres from agricultural to commercial use for a towing company and vehicle storage facility at 3275 Bridal Mill Road. Ted Whitlock explained that the facility would serve as a holding area for impounded vehicles, allowing insurance companies to assess and retrieve cars as needed. “This is strictly for storage, not a repair shop,” he emphasized, ensuring the commission that the operation would not disrupt the neighborhood.

Commission members expressed their support, with one suggesting the addition of evergreen plantings around the property to enhance privacy and aesthetics. The proposal was met with unanimous approval, with the condition that the plantings be established within the buffer zone. The Whitlocks’ project will now move to the Board of Commissioners for final approval next month.

Next on the agenda was a request from Michelle Brooks to rezone 7.52 acres from agricultural to commercial for a kennel operation at 689 Jean Bell Road. Brooks, who owns German Shepherds, explained that the rezoning was necessary to comply with regulations regarding breeding. “I need to stay in compliance with having one or two litters a year,” she stated, assuring the commission that no additional buildings would be constructed and that her dogs live indoors. With no opposition voiced, the commission swiftly approved her request, also set to be reviewed by the Board of Commissioners.

The final discussion revolved around a proposal from Michael Greenlee, representing a client seeking to rezone one acre from agricultural to commercial for minor auto repair and outside storage at 5495 Highway 20. Greenlee highlighted the property’s location within a developed commercial area, noting that most surrounding lots are already zoned for similar uses. He requested a variance to reduce the required transitional buffer from 50 to 25 feet, citing the existing commercial context.

As the meeting concluded, the commission members expressed optimism about the potential for these developments to contribute positively to Walton County’s growth. Each proposal, now on its way to the Board of Commissioners, reflects a community eager to adapt and expand its commercial offerings while maintaining a focus on responsible development.