The Planning Commission on Aug. 5 denied a request by J and M Capital Ventures LLC to rezone parts of a property to I‑2 intensive industrial, voting 4–3 after multiple residents described persistent odors, noise and traffic safety problems in the area.

Project and staff position: Jason Apple of ESI presented the request to rezone a portion of the western parcel to I‑2; planning staff recommended approval, citing compatibility with nearby industrial areas and transportation access.

Public comments and concerns: Several nearby residents spoke in opposition. Angela Oxford, who said she lives at 106 East Bailey, told commissioners she was “concerned regarding the particulates in the air, just the additional traffic in the area.” Adrianna Ramsey, who said she lives at 1016 Broadband Street, said the area “literally stinks,” that smells and industrial activity reduced their neighborhood’s quality of life, and warned that added industrial uses would worsen air and traffic impacts. Natalie O’Brien of 143 Old Wire Road cited noise pollution, overnight disturbances and pedestrian safety on Old Wire Road, which lacks sidewalks.

Decision and appeal rights: After public testimony and staff comments, the commission voted 4–3 to deny the rezoning request (R25‑50). Planning staff told the applicant the decision may be appealed to the City Council in writing within 15 days.

Context: Commissioners noted the site is adjacent to existing industrial uses but that neighbors’ testimony about air quality, noise and pedestrian safety informed their vote. Staff reiterated the city’s policy goals to consolidate industrial uses near major arterials and utility trunk lines, but the commission declined to expand I‑2 zoning at this location.