Commissioners send amended open-space rule for cluster developments to planning commission after heated debate

Blount County commissioners on July 17 voted 15–1 to forward a zoning amendment, Resolution 25‑7‑012, as amended, to the county planning commission for review. The amended language would require 35% open space for cluster developments in suburbanizing areas and retain a 40% open‑space requirement in R‑1 and R‑2 zones.

The vote followed more than an hour of public comment and extended debate among commissioners about housing affordability, rural character, and how open‑space rules affect whether cluster developments are built. Supporters of reducing the requirement said a lower percentage would allow more compact, affordable units; opponents said lowering the floor risks more sprawl and environmental harm.

Resolution 25‑7‑012 was introduced by Commissioner Wells and originally proposed changing the county's cluster development open‑space requirement. Wells said he had proposed a one‑third (33.33%) standard earlier…