Planning commission recommends approval to expand Finish Line RV Park, adds cabins and amenities

The Hot Springs Planning Commission on a voice and roll-call vote recommended the Board of Directors approve a major modification to the Finish Line RV Park plan development (PD 190198), allowing the park to expand by roughly 6.5 acres and add lodging and guest amenities.

Director Selwyn presented the application on behalf of staff, saying the proposal from Silver Spur Properties, LLC (represented by Marconi Engineering) would "expand the existing Finish Line RV park footprint to include additional land to the east, relocate previously approved improvements and establish new uses." He told commissioners the proposed uses would include "pickleball courts, a restroom facility, cabins, a clubhouse, a pool, a playground, a walking trail, and associated parking all to be used privately by the guests of the RV park." Selwyn also said staff found the application meets Hot Springs code section 16-2-14.4(3) subject to seven conditions.

Applicant representative Liza Marconi, who identified herself and provided a Little Rock address, told commissioners she was "here to answer any questions," and agreed the cabins are intended to provide on-site lodging for guests who do not own RVs.

Commissioners asked factual questions about storage and decorations, and about whether the park is seasonal. The applicant said the park operates year-round but is busiest during racing season; cabins were described as an option for guests who arrive without an RV.

The conditions read into the record include (summarized): the approved development plan will govern the property; a revised photometric lighting plan demonstrating no more than 1 foot-candle at property lines; confirmation of detention inlet elevation with the Hot Springs Engineering Department prior to soil disturbance; engineered plans for retaining walls over 4 feet; required city stormwater permits prior to soil disturbance; future food-truck use subject to an amended PD site plan; and a limitation of uses to specified recreational-vehicle parking, clubhouse, pool, on-site lodging residences (cabins), mobile food, pet park, pickleball courts and customary accessory uses.

Miss Sweet Donaldson called the roll on the recommendation; all voting commissioners present supported forwarding the recommendation to the Board of Directors and the chair announced the item passed. The commission’s recommendation is advisory; Director Selwyn said the Hot Springs Board of Directors will make the final decision at their Dec. 2 meeting at 6 p.m. in the same room.

The Planning Commission’s action was a recommendation only; final approval or additional conditions may be imposed by the Board of Directors at the Dec. 2 hearing.