Planning commission recommends rezoning 4700 Industrial Drive from R1 to I2, cites sewer and site‑plan conditions

McAllister Engineering asked the Jonesborough Metropolitan Area Planning Commission to recommend rezoning 4.9 acres at 4700 Industrial Drive from R1 (single‑family medium density) to I2 (general industrial). The commission gave a favorable recommendation on the rezoning, subject to several planning and engineering conditions.

Megan McAllister of McAllister Engineering spoke for the applicant. A staff planner told commissioners the site is currently without sewer service; because the parcel is 4.9 acres it could operate on septic depending on future water‑use demands. The planner noted the area contains industrial uses that are legally nonconforming under R1 zoning but that rezoning would align the site with surrounding uses.

Staff recommended approval provided the applicant satisfy city‑engineer requirements, comply with the city’s stormwater drainage design manual and applicable floodplain regulations, and submit a final site plan for planning‑department review before redevelopment or change of use. The planner also said any future change of use would be subject to planning‑department approval.

Commissioners asked about sewer availability and whether the rezoned parcel would need sewer; staff said the parcel does not currently have sewer service and may rely on septic depending on actual water use for a future use. The commission voted to recommend approval; the planner noted the item must be placed on the city council agenda before 10:00 a.m. Thursday for council consideration.