Planning Commission approves Jackson Butler final plat with sewer-note alternative

The Murfreesboro Planning Commission on Feb. 19 approved a final plat that subdivides about 12.4 acres at Butler Drive and Joby Jackson Parkway into three lots, allowing a property transfer to proceed while noting that sanitary sewer is not currently available to the site.

Planning staff presented the Jackson Butler final plat and asked the commission to approve an alternative to the subdivision regulations so the plat can be recorded without the usual sanitary‑sewer signature block. Planning staff said the property was annexed and zoned several months ago and that the Butler Drive realignment requires revised lot lines and a small acquisition by the city for future public‑works property.

The commission-approved alternative will place the following note on the recorded plat: “Sanitary sewer is not available to this property at the time of the recording of this plat, and no habitable structures are currently contemplated to be constructed on this property. In the event habitable structures are proposed, plans will need to be submitted to and approved by MWRD showing sanitary sewer infrastructure and connections or alternative sewage disposal areas, and any off‑site sanitary sewer easements needed for the extension of sanitary sewer must be recorded. In addition, at such time that MWRD is able to certify and sign the plan, there will need to be a replat showing on‑site sanitary sewer easements, if needed, along with a signature block for MWRD.” The wording above is the note staff proposed for the plat.

Why it matters: The note allows the subdivision and property transfer to proceed while making clear that sewer service must be provided—and documented—before any habitable building construction. Planning staff said this preserves the applicant’s ability to transfer lots now without circumventing future sewer requirements.

Details and commission discussion: Planning staff explained that the subdivision regulations normally require certain signature blocks, including one from Murfreesboro Water Resources Department (MWRD), certifying sewer availability or a posted surety. Because sewer is not in place for this property, staff and legal reviewed an alternative approach that would substitute the plat note in lieu of the signature block. Staff recommended approval of the final plat subject to standard conditions and the explicit approval of the alternative written on the plat.

Commission members asked whether off‑site sewer easements would be required and whether those easements would be difficult to obtain. Planning staff said extending sewer could be tied to the road construction and that off‑site easements would be required if necessary, but the need for easements had not yet been determined. Staff noted the note is intended to notify future buyers and require a replat and MWRD signature when sewer becomes available.

Vote: The commission approved the final plat with the alternative plat note. The roll call recorded five votes in favor and one opposed.

What’s next: The plat recordation will proceed with the note. Future development that proposes habitable structures must submit plans showing sanitary sewer infrastructure and obtain MWRD certification and a replat if required.