Commission adopts rezoning for 2893 US‑70, moves parcel to General Business

The Burke County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Nov. 17 to rezone a parcel at 2893 U.S. 70 in Connelly Springs from R‑2 (residential) to GB (General Business), adopting Ordinance No. 2025‑12 and updating the county future land use map.

Patrick Dickenson, the county planner, told the board the property already contains a commercial tractor‑trailer repair structure and sits along a mixed‑use stretch of U.S. 70 that includes service stations, light industrial uses and single‑family homes. He said the change would allow the existing building to be used for commercial activity permitted in the general business district and noted the request aligns with the commissioners’ goals to encourage economic development along major highways.

Dickenson said the parcel currently is designated as residential infill on the county’s future land use map; the ordinance will change that designation to general business. He told the board the planning board voted 6‑0 in favor of the rezoning after no members of the public spoke at the planning hearing.

Commissioner Barriere moved to adopt the ordinance and argued the request was “reasonable and in the public interest” given surrounding uses and access to state‑maintained roads. The motion carried on a 5‑0 vote.

The adopted ordinance and future land‑use change do not themselves authorize particular businesses that require additional permits or special use approvals; such uses will remain subject to land‑use regulations and any required county or state approvals. The applicant is listed as Country Squire Leasing LLC.

The board’s action follows staff findings and the planning board recommendation. The county planner said staff considered consistency with the Burke County blueprint/strategic plan and corridor priorities when recommending approval.