Planning commission recommends annexation of Suncoast Resources site, approves rezoning request for adjacent parcel

The Columbia Planning Commission voted to recommend annexation of 1703 Atlas Road (Annex 20250012) and approved a zoning map amendment for a portion of 1801 Smith Street (ZMA 2025001) that would allow heavy industrial uses, the commission decided during its meeting.

Planning staff told the commission it was not recommending approval, citing the purpose of the heavy industrial district and the proximity of the proposed heavy industrial area to nearby residences — "the closest point is about a 180 feet," a planning staff member said during the meeting. The applicant said the change is needed to allow Suncoast Resources to expand operations and provide truck parking behind an existing building.

Why it matters: The actions would allow a company that has operated in the county to expand within the city and add truck parking and storage behind the building at 1703 Atlas Road. Staff said the heavy industrial zoning would permit higher-intensity uses than currently allowed and raised concerns about impacts beyond the parcel’s boundaries. The applicant said the tanks referenced in the application would be located…