Tulip Poplar self-storage complex proposed near SR 109; staff asks for screening condition for rooftop equipment

Planning staff presented a site plan for a three-story self-storage building totaling 15,770 square feet and a 1,195-square-foot office on 3.63 acres zoned CS (Commercial Service) at 1172 Tulip Poplar Drive. Kimberly Atley said a variance had been approved in June 2024 and a revised plat recorded in July; staff listed only minor corrections to the current site plan. The applicant representative, Drew Ferguson of Greenwood Design, said they agreed to staff comments and was available to answer questions.

Commissioners discussed grade changes between the building pad and State Route 109 and asked about rooftop screening for mechanical equipment. The applicant said the top of the roof is at 32 feet and that an 8-foot parapet would help hide HVAC equipment; a commissioner asked staff to add a condition requiring complete screening to avoid visible equipment after construction. Commissioners noted the heavy tree line in the area would help conceal the structure from some vantage points.

Staff had no other outstanding concerns in the transcript; commissioners indicated they would expect to see screening details in construction documents. No formal vote or condition language beyond the suggested screening requirement was recorded in the transcript.

Ending: Applicant will return with final submittal materials; staff will add, as appropriate, conditions to ensure mechanical equipment is fully screened from public view.