Teton County officials are considering potential changes to business park zoning and legacy zones, a topic that has sparked significant discussion among board members. During the recent meeting on September 16, 2025, the planning director highlighted the community's need for both light and heavy industry, emphasizing the importance of determining appropriate locations for such developments.

The board acknowledged that while expanding business park zoning is not currently on the work plan, it is anticipated to be revisited in the future. The planning director noted that any changes to land development regulations (LDRs) would not necessarily require an amendment to the comprehensive plan, which serves as a guiding document for community vision. However, she cautioned that deviating from the plan could lead to community expectations not being met.

A key focus of the discussion was the Hog Island area, which is characterized as stable and primarily residential, with small home businesses. The comprehensive plan explicitly states that this area should not transition into an industrial zone like the South Park Business Center. Public feedback on the proposed changes has been mixed, with four letters and three phone calls opposing the amendment, citing concerns over predictability and the potential benefit to a single property owner rather than the broader community. In contrast, three letters of support emphasized the need for critical service providers in the county.

The planning director presented several factors for approval of the proposed changes, noting that the proposal does not align with the community's vision as outlined in the comprehensive plan. Concerns were raised about the predictability of land development regulations and the introduction of new uses that could complicate existing standards.

As Teton County navigates these discussions, the board is tasked with balancing community needs for industrial space while adhering to the established vision for areas like Hog Island. The outcome of these deliberations will have lasting implications for the county's development strategy and community character.