Commission approves two rezoning requests on first reading to align land use and support commercial expansion

The commission on May 1 approved first readings for two unrelated rezoning requests that staff said will correct zoning conformity and support an existing commercial use.

Bryce McNamer, planner with Development Services, presented the first request to rezone a 2.4-acre parcel at 134 Dalewood Drive from I-2 heavy industrial to R-2 low-density residential. McNamer said the rezoning is intended to bring an existing single-family residence into conformity with surrounding residential zoning; the parcel has accessory structures and no new development is proposed. The Planning Commission recommended approval on April 8 and staff recommended approval; commissioners approved first reading and the item will return for a second reading and public hearing.

McNamer then presented a second rezoning to change approximately 5.7 acres near the intersection of Bristol Highway and Creekmore Drive from R-4 medium-density residential to B-4 planned arterial business. The request was described as a reconfiguration to allow Johnson City Toyota to use the land for overflow parking; no new buildings were proposed and staff said buffers would be required where commercial use abuts residential property. McNamer noted a stream on the site and told commissioners that public-works and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) would review any structures or bridging required for access across the creek. The Planning Commission held a neighborhood meeting for the item and staff recommended approval to eliminate split zoning conditions; commissioners moved and approved the first reading.

Both rezoning requests were presented as conformity or cleanup actions rather than proposals for new buildings; any major changes to concept plans would require concept-plan amendments and additional review.