Ross Kinchen seeks rezone of 4.95 acres on Highway 1077 in northern parish

A significant zoning request took center stage at the St. Tammany Parish Zoning Commission meeting on September 2, 2025, as the commission discussed a proposal to rezone a 4.95-acre parcel located at the corner of P. Morgan Road and Highway 1077. The request aims to change the zoning from R-1 to R-2, allowing for the creation of two 2.5-acre lots, each with over 200 feet of frontage.

Ross Kinchen, representing the property owner, emphasized that the goal is to maintain the rural character of the area while accommodating controlled growth. He argued that the proposed development aligns with the existing landscape, noting that there are already several lots of similar size nearby. "This type of development is cohesive to what I feel people want for rural areas," Kinchen stated, highlighting the importance of larger lots in preserving the community's rural feel.

However, the commission raised questions about the specifics of the proposal, particularly regarding the minimum lot size requirements under the R-2 zoning designation. A misunderstanding arose about whether the intention was to create two 2-acre lots or to conform to the R-2 requirement of a minimum of 3 acres per lot. Kinchen clarified that the proposal was indeed to subdivide into two 2-acre lots, prompting further discussion on the implications of this decision.

As the meeting progressed, the commission acknowledged the need for clarity in the proposal, indicating that further adjustments might be necessary to align with zoning regulations. The outcome of this request could set a precedent for future developments in the area, making it a pivotal moment for zoning decisions in St. Tammany Parish. The commission is expected to deliberate further on this matter in upcoming meetings, with community input likely to play a crucial role in the final decision.