Silver Lake Township approves zoning change for Rodney Robinson Trust property

The Shawnee County Planning Commission convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss a significant zoning amendment that could impact local development in Silver Lake Township. The sole item on the agenda was a request to change the zoning classification of a 1.85-acre property from Rural Agricultural (RA1) to Light Industrial (I1). This change is aimed at facilitating the expansion of manufacturing and storage capabilities for a local business owned by Rodney Robinson.

The property, located approximately 125 feet east of East Lakeland Drive and south of Northwest US 24 Highway, has garnered attention due to its potential for economic development. Planning and Zoning Administrator Herrine Perez presented the case, noting that the staff recommended approval of the zoning change, contingent upon three specific conditions. These include the submission of a drainage report for public works review, the approval and recording of a final plat before development, and obtaining an entrance permit from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).

Joshua Balinski, representing SBB Engineering, spoke on behalf of the property owner, indicating that the proposed development would not only enhance manufacturing space but also leave room for future projects, such as storage units. Balinski assured the commission that they are actively working on the necessary documentation to meet the outlined conditions.

During the meeting, commissioners expressed support for the proposal, confirming that the intended uses under the I1 classification align with the community's development goals. The commission unanimously voted in favor of the zoning change, which will now proceed to the Board of County Commissioners for final approval on June 9, 2025.

This decision marks a pivotal moment for Silver Lake Township, as it opens the door for increased industrial activity and potential job creation in the area. The approval process reflects a broader trend in Shawnee County towards accommodating growth while ensuring that development meets regulatory standards. As the community anticipates the upcoming Board meeting, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this zoning change will shape the local economic landscape.