Commission conditionally approves new East Waterwell Road event venue; neighbors voice traffic and noise concerns

The Saline County Planning and Zoning Commission on July 22 granted a conditional use permit to Wilfred ("Ed") and Rochelle O'Connor to establish an event venue at 3546 East Waterwell Road, with conditions intended to limit neighborhood impacts including a three-year review, no off-site parking in the roadway, ingress/egress signage and required commercial and environmental approvals.

Planning staff described the proposal as a seasonal/meeting venue to host weddings, reunions and similar events on the agricultural portion of the parcel. Staff said the applicant agreed to adjust lot lines so the proposed use area meets the three-acre minimum under the county environmental code and that environmental services must review well and septic plans. The applicant stated there would be no on-site lodging, no fireworks or wood-burning fireplaces and that alcohol would not be provided by the venue (guests could bring it).

Applicant Wilfred O'Connor told commissioners the building would be a steel-clad post-frame structure (roughly 60 by 80 with covered wings) and said the venue would host up to 120 guests for events but that many gatherings would be smaller. "It's just a nice meeting spot," O'Connor said, adding the facility would be available year-round by reservation.

Neighbors raised multiple concerns during the public-comment period. Anthony De Laurentiis, who lives nearby, cited safety issues for pedestrians, mobility-device users and horse riders who use Waterwell Road; he also raised worries about trash, noise, lighting and property values. Diana Harden of the Saline County Conservation District and neighbor Lexi Schwartz echoed concerns about security, fencing, lighting spill and the narrow road without shoulders.

Commissioners and staff discussed site details including septic suitability and parking layout. Environmental staff present (Seth) said soils on the site are suitable for a septic system and that a 50-by-50 area initially shown for septic was too small; environmental requirements must be met before final approval. Commissioners added conditions recommended by staff and agreed to a three-year review period and a clear prohibition on parking in the public right-of-way; they also asked for ingress/egress signage and required that lighting be shielded so it does not illuminate adjacent properties.

The motion to approve the permit passed with one dissenting vote; the chair announced the motion carried. Approval is conditioned on completion of the county commercial permit review, environmental services' requirements for well and septic, adherence to no off-site parking in the right-of-way, and a three-year review to monitor impacts.