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Zoning board approves expansion of existing church property on Highway 155
Summary
The Zoning Board approved a conditional‑use request to expand an existing religious facility at 4435 and 4441 Highway 155 to add a counseling center and improve existing grounds; the board also discussed code enforcement and overlay requirements tied to any exterior work.
The Henry County Zoning Board unanimously approved a conditional‑use request to expand existing church facilities at 4435 and 4441 Highway 155 North. The approval allows the applicant to repurpose an existing structure for a counseling center and remove certain outbuildings as shown in the submitted site plan.
Planning staff presented the application and its history: the property at 4401 Highway 155 North received conditional‑use approval in 2000 and the church was built in 2003; the applicant requested CU2505 to expand the existing religious facility and use an additional structure as a counseling center. Staff recommended approval.
Applicant Jeffrey Dawes, pastor and property owner, said the expansion is intended to support community outreach, including mental‑health services and programs for veterans. Supporters — including Alton Head and Carolyn Lewis — testified to the church’s community work, with Lewis saying the church has helped the American Legion in disaster relief and veterans’ housing projects.
Board members asked about compliance with sign and highway overlay district requirements. A board member noted prior code enforcement citations and asked whether the church would comply with the county’s sign ordinance and with any Highway Overlay District standards for exterior changes. Dawes said the church would follow required standards. Planning staff clarified that the property falls under the Highway Overlay District and that interior renovations for ADA compliance and a parking lot would be required if the use changes to a counseling center; exterior work would have to meet overlay standards.
After discussion, a board member moved to approve CU2505; the motion passed unanimously.
Ending: The approval allows the church to expand operations subject to building, ADA and Highway Overlay District requirements; any future exterior or new construction will require plan review and permits and must meet overlay and sign standards.
