Union Church of 5 Corners seeks permit change to divide property on Marshall Road

The Eaton County Planning Commission convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss a significant request from the Union Church of 5 Corners, located at 4012 Marshall Road. The church is seeking a change of conditions to its existing conditional use permit, which currently allows for its operation as a religious institution. The proposed change involves dividing the church property, which spans 7.7 acres and is zoned for low-density residential use, into smaller lots for sale. The proceeds from this sale are intended to fund necessary maintenance for the aging church building.

The church's application has garnered attention due to concerns raised by nearby residents regarding traffic safety on Marshall Road, a major thoroughfare. One resident, Jennifer Wilson, expressed her fears about the potential increase in traffic and the dangers posed by existing conditions on the road. Wilson highlighted a history of accidents in the area, urging the commission to consider alternative access routes for the new lots to mitigate risks. She suggested that an easement be created to connect the new lots to 5 Point Highway instead of Marshall Road, where speeding has become a serious issue.

The Planning Commission acknowledged the importance of these concerns but clarified that their authority is limited regarding driveway permits and road access, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Eaton County Road Commission. The commission noted that the church's request aligns with zoning requirements for a large religious institution, which necessitates retaining a minimum of five acres of land.

In addition to the church's proposal, the commission reviewed feedback from the Eaton County Drain Commissioner and the Barre Eden District Health Department, both of which indicated no significant concerns regarding drainage or health issues related to the property.

As the meeting concluded, the commission emphasized the need to balance community safety with the church's operational needs. The outcome of this request will not only impact the church's future but also the surrounding community's safety and traffic dynamics. The Planning Commission will continue to evaluate the proposal, considering both the church's financial needs and the residents' safety concerns as they move forward.