Commission backs rezoning request from R‑3 to I‑1 for Linger property; sends recommendation to council

The Norton Planning Commission voted to approve PC application R4, a rezoning request to change three parcels from R‑3 (residential) to I‑1 (industrial). Nelson Linger, the property owner, spoke in favor of the rezoning, describing cleanup and property improvements and noting current industrial uses on and around the site.

Commissioners voted unanimously to pass the planning commission recommendation; the rezoning will be submitted to Norton City Council for the council’s formal action (typically multiple readings). Nelson Linger told the commission he recently acquired an adjacent 17-acre parcel, removed a flood-damaged house and intends to continue operating and improving the business uses on the property, including firewood processing and dumpster operations.

Planning staff and commissioners discussed the site’s floodplain and wetland context, historical zoning, and utility plans; staff noted water service is included in the city’s capital improvements plan. The commission’s approval was described as a recommendation; zoning administrator staff said the rezoning will be drafted and forwarded to council for public hearings and council votes.