Planning Commission backs rezoning of multiple Big Springs properties to general commercial

Vice Chairman Alex Rice presided over the Planning Commission on June 16 as members recommended rezoning two multi-tenant properties on Big Springs Avenue from restricted industrial (I-1) to general commercial (C-2). The applicants asked that the change reflect current uses and the town's future land-use map.

The commission's staff presentation, led by planning staff member Nicholas Northcutt, said the parcels are shown as commercial on the 2011 future land-use map and are occupied by multiple tenants. "When I pull it up, it is currently zoned I-1," Northcutt said, and that discrepancy has caused prospective tenants to question whether new businesses could occupy the space.

Applicant Dan J. Markham told the commission the rezone would allow the properties to be used and marketed as they currently function. Commissioners discussed whether light industrial or technology uses would still be permitted; Northcutt said the proposed C-2 district allows many commercial uses while excluding heavy industry such as large-scale textile manufacturing.

After public-comment notice and no speakers, the commission voted to forward the rezoning applications for 217/219 and 400/414 Big Springs Avenue with a favorable recommendation to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. The motion carried on a voice vote following a motion by Mayor Seaborn and a second by Commissioner Comer.

The items will return to the municipal governing body for the first and second readings required to adopt zoning changes.