River House at Swinging Bridge short-term rentals moved to Planning Commission

Scott Sidley told a Madison County panel he is seeking a special-use permit to allow multiple short‑term rental units on his 13.24‑acre River House property near the Swinging Bridge in Crigglersville, and the panel voted to forward the application to the Planning Commission.

Sidley said he bought the property in February 2017; it includes a primary dwelling, several outbuildings that were previously used for workshops and a screened riverside deck area that has been converted internally. County staff discovered that several outbuildings and the riverside deck had been converted to lodging units without permits, and that there were graywater issues associated with the riverside structure. Sidley told the panel he has applied for a new septic system and is working with the health department to correct issues.

"We are, this month, putting in a new septic system," Sidley said, describing steps taken to address county concerns. Zoning staff said the multiple‑unit short‑term rental use requires a special‑use permit under the county ordinance (article 20); planning staff expressed no policy objections provided the owner completes required permitting and brings structures into compliance. Health department staff confirmed they are reviewing on‑site evaluations and that the owner has an open application for a replacement septic system.

The panel moved the River House at the Swinging Bridge SUP to the Planning Commission by voice vote. Staff advised the owner to provide site details and photographs and to continue working with building and health officials to resolve any outstanding compliance issues before the Planning Commission public hearing.