Planning commission approves minutes, site plans, minor subdivisions and elects vice chairman

The Blount County Planning Commission on Tuesday approved routine minutes, two site plans, two minor subdivision plats with conditions and elected Tom Hodge as vice chairman.

The commission approved the minutes of the Jan. 23 meeting on a motion by Commissioner Nick Bright, seconded by Steve Morris. The meeting record did not show a roll-call tally for that vote.

Site plans

Planning staff presented a site plan for Simplified Sheds at 5030 U.S. Highway 411 South. The applicant plans to add a 30-by-45-foot structure to the rear of the property for automotive services in addition to existing retail sales. Staff recommended approval “subject to the issuance of all permits.” Commissioner Tom Holland moved to approve the site plan with conditions; Commissioner Sullins seconded the motion and it passed.

A second site plan covers an addition at 2340 and 2342 Stock Creek Boulevard to expand an existing building within an industrial park. Staff said the design requirements do not apply because the work is internal to the industrial park and the site is served by sanitary sewer; staff recommended approval subject to issuance of permits and approval of the Stock Creek Design Review Committee. Commissioner Wells moved to approve, Commissioner Bright seconded. Commissioner McClellan asked about parking reductions, noting the site plan “doubled the size of the building by the site plan, but you cut your parking in half,” and staff replied the tenant will be responsible for providing sufficient parking and that the use is primarily warehousing. The motion passed.

Minor subdivisions

The commission approved the Erasmus property minor subdivision (Lots 1 and 2, South Long Hollow Road), submitted by Cobus Erasmus, with conditions. Staff listed outstanding items to be completed before final plat release: site-distance improvements required by the highway department, signature plats with all certifications (including environmental health, electric and water), and payment of the environmental health review fee and the planning fee. Commissioner Wells moved to approve with conditions; Commissioner Bright seconded and the motion passed.

The Rhine property subdivision (Lots 1–3, Trigonier Road) also received conditional approval. Staff said water service is not available and a well note was added to the plat; they also requested a revised plat including a notice of future development, signature plats with certifications if available, and payment of fees. Commissioner Wells moved to approve with conditions; Commissioner Bright seconded and the motion passed.

Election of vice chairman

The commission opened nominations for vice chairman. Commissioner Wells nominated Tom Hodge. A motion to close nominations and elect by acclamation was moved and seconded; commissioners approved and Tom Hodge was confirmed as vice chairman.

Other

There were no public hearings and no public comments on agenda items during the meeting. The commission adjourned following the business.