Commissioners approve rezoning for 1,800‑sq‑ft farm‑food grocery on Washburn Road (Case 24‑06)

The Cleveland County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve Case 24‑06, rezoning a half‑acre portion of parcel 66377 on Washburn Road from Residential to Neighborhood Business to permit a conditional use farm‑food grocery.

Chris Martin presented the application on behalf of petitioner Travis Baumgartner, describing a proposed 1,800‑square‑foot building with six parking spaces and required Type B screening. Martin told the board that the applicant submitted a site plan and that the planning board reviewed the application and recommended approval, finding the request consistent with the county’s future land‑use plan for a primary growth area.

During commissioner questions, Martin clarified that an adjacent sawmill is on a neighboring parcel, not the subject lot, and that the proposed six parking spaces meet the county’s local parking ordinance requirements for the building’s size. A commissioner asked whether the store would operate more like a farmers’ market or a convenience store; Martin said it had been described as a 'farm food style grocery.'

Public comment included a brief remark from a sign‑up carrying the same name that had addressed an earlier agenda item and a statement from Noah Hofstadler in favor of the store, noting community interest in increased access to fresh produce and healthier food options.

After the hearing was closed, a commissioner moved to approve Case 24‑06 and another seconded; the board voted with no recorded opposition and the motion carried unanimously.

The transcript does not record detailed operating hours, specific conditions beyond required Type B screening, or a finalized parking plan beyond the six spaces described; the planning office indicated compliance with the local ordinance but did not cite a specific ordinance number during the presentation.