Rezoning request for storage units in Westport tabled after drainage, runoff concerns

The Decatur County Area Plan Commission tabled APC petition 2025-4, a request by Roy Sailor to rezone approximately 7.28 acres from A1 to B2 to allow storage units near 808 North State Road 3, Westport, after neighbors and the Westport Methodist Church raised stormwater and runoff concerns.

Roy Sailor’s representative told the commission the item is an initial rezoning step and that engineering and drainage design work remain to be completed. David O'Hame, identified in the record as the Westport Methodist Church board president, submitted a written letter saying church members walked the property boundary and expressed particular concern about potential stormwater runoff caused by construction and disturbed soil on the parcel.

A nearby resident (identified in the transcript as Jessica) described frequent flooding near driveways and said branches and debris have been removed recently to try to reduce back-ups. Jessica said the parcel drains toward a low-lying area near a trailer park and expressed worries about increased nighttime traffic and security if storage units are built.

Commissioners and staff discussed the county’s drainage ordinance, noting that a drainage study and engineered design would be required before a building permit could be issued. Several commissioners suggested the rezoning was an appropriate first step but recommended additional engineering and site details be provided before moving forward. One commissioner moved to table the petition; the motion carried by voice vote and the item was tabled pending further information and engineered plans.

The commission said typical neighboring impacts (lighting, fencing, access, open-storage conditions such as RV/boat parking) could be addressed through stipulations if the applicant provides finalized designs.