East Ridge planning commission denies rezoning request for 1512 John Ross Road

The East Ridge Planning Commission voted unanimously April 14 to deny a request to rezone property at 1512 John Ross Road (tax map ID 168AN037) from R-1 single-family to R-2 duplex district. The applicant, Stone Source Management, sought the rezoning to permit operating the house as a short-term vacation rental.

City planning staff warned commissioners that the surrounding Glen Oaks neighborhood is characterized by long-term, owner-occupied single-family homes and that granting the rezoning would constitute spot zoning that could set a precedent. Planning staff said introducing transient lodging could change the residential character and increase noise, parking and congestion.

Neighbors who spoke at the meeting cited on-street parking, a single access road (Glen Oaks Drive), safety near intersections and the potential for duplex construction if zoning were changed. Lisa Tester, a school nurse who lives on Glen Oaks Drive, said she has observed cars parked close to the stop sign on John Ross Road that create sightline and braking issues. Resident remarks emphasized concerns about traffic, loss of community cohesion and potential reductions to property values.

Applicant Camille Stone of Stone Source Management described the owner’s intent to use the house as a short-term vacation rental so the retired homeowner could travel while renting the home. Stone said the property was rebuilt after a fire and that it includes a long driveway and a turnaround that would limit on-street parking. Stone also said a current occupant is a professional staying longer than 30 days and that her company screens guests.

Commission discussion focused on the zoning change itself rather than the applicant’s proposed use. Commissioners said rezoning the lot to R-2 would allow future duplex development if the house were torn down or sold, a result several commissioners said they wanted to avoid. One commissioner referenced a unanimous city resolution passed about a year earlier intended to protect single-family neighborhoods; commissioners said that supported denying the rezone.

Commission Member Witt made a motion to deny the rezoning request; the motion was seconded and carried on a roll call vote with Vice Chairperson Howe, Commission Member Cornelius, Commission Member Williams, Commission Member Witt and Chairperson Tuggle all voting yes to deny.

The denial leaves the property in R-1 single-family zoning. Planning staff noted residents and the applicant may pursue other permitted uses under existing zoning, and the applicant may return with alternate proposals following the denial.

No appeals or subsequent council actions were recorded during the meeting.