Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning And Historic Preservation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission denies rezoning to light industrial in Old Town after residents warn of traffic, character impacts
Summary
The commission unanimously denied a proposal to change several lots in the original town area from commercial to light industrial after staff recommended denial and residents testified that industrial zoning would be incompatible with historic Old Town and increase truck traffic on residential streets.
The Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to deny a rezoning request to change several lots near 615 W. 7th Street from commercial to light industrial. Staff said the proposed light industrial district is inconsistent with the comprehensive plan’s 'original town' module and would permit uses inappropriate for the historic, residential neighborhood (staff presentation, SEG 1982–2008).
Multiple residents testified in opposition. Linville Phipps (Speaker 20) said he had bought property expecting light industrial designation at the time but expressed frustration with how zoning had been applied; other residents including Gary Neff (Speaker 21) and Ted Howard (Speaker 22) described concerns that industrial uses would bring heavy truck traffic down small residential streets, damage historic character and increase nuisance risks. Staff noted 28 postcards were mailed and one letter of opposition had been received prior to the meeting.
After public comment, a motion to deny the rezoning was made and seconded; the commission voted 5‑0 to deny. The denial aligned with staff’s recommendation and with public comments urging protection of Old Town’s historic and residential character.
Next steps: With the denial, the property remains zoned commercial; property owners seeking different uses would need to pursue alternate zoning requests or conditional approvals consistent with the future land use plan.
