Planning Commission backs conditional-use permit for event venue at 16,305 New Kent Highway

The New Kent County Planning Commission on Jan. 21 voted to forward a favorable recommendation on Conditional Use Permit CUP‑4‑24, an application from Cortissa Thomas on behalf of Camco Properties LLC to operate an assembly‑hall/event venue at 16,305 New Kent Highway.

Staff described the proposal as an event venue on a 15.7‑acre parcel with roughly 5 acres proposed for event use. The applicant’s narrative states events would be limited to intimate gatherings including weddings, birthday parties, garden parties and religious retreats, with up to 125 guests anticipated for any given event. Patrick Silva, principal planner, told the commission staff finds the proposed use consistent with the county comprehensive plan and recommended approval subject to conditions intended to mitigate potential noise, traffic and parking impacts.

The resolution recommending approval (PC02‑25) includes conditions that require a concept plan clarifying which indoor spaces (if any) will be used, parking provisions based on occupant load, and sanitary arrangements. Staff noted the county building official reviewed the request and recommended that a concept plan be provided so the official can determine if any change‑of‑use improvements are required. Silva said the building official had no immediate recommended structural improvements given no new construction was proposed.

Applicant Cortissa Thomas told commissioners the house on the property would remain primarily a residence and would not be opened as interior event space except for limited rooms (for example a sunroom or a bedroom that could be used as a bride’s dressing area). She said she and family members would be on site during events and that portable restrooms (porta‑potties) would be provided by event operators; she also said tents would be used only with required permits and in specified locations.

Commissioners questioned how parking would be handled and how the septic system and portable sanitation would be managed for events. Staff explained their parking calculation used the ordinance’s assembly‑hall standard interpreted as one parking space per four attendees, which led to the staff recommendation of 32 off‑site/onsite spaces for the proposed occupancy. The draft resolution contains an inspection condition and a requirement that the applicant demonstrate vehicle circulation and event staging on a concept plan.

During the public hearing no members of the public were signed up to speak. Reverend Milton Hathaway moved to forward CUP‑4‑24 to the Board of Supervisors with a favorable recommendation and to find the project in substantial accord with the comprehensive plan. In the roll call vote, one commissioner abstained (Mr. Moyer); all other commissioners present voted aye. The motion carried.

The item will next be considered by the New Kent County Board of Supervisors, which will hold the formal public hearing and take final action.