Commission defers DOM LLC fuel-dispensing SUP to Oct. 3, leaves public hearing open

Orange County’s Planning Commission voted to defer action on SUP-2024-0238 (DOM LLC) to its Oct. 3 meeting and left the public hearing open so residents can still comment. The item concerns a fuel-dispensing use and proposed increased signage at 4201 Spotswood Trail; staff noted a crash history on U.S. 33 in front of the site and identified multiple access nonconformities under county code.

Planner Kira Davis told commissioners the property contains two closely spaced entrances on Route 33 that likely violate spacing requirements in the county’s zoning ordinance and that the site currently has three access points including a third off an adjoining road. The staff report recommends conditions such as directional pavement markings to designate one entrance as entry and the other as exit and requiring all work in the VDOT right-of-way to follow VDOT permit requirements.

Commissioners pressed whether the entrances, lighting, and dumpster location were contributing to the crash history and noted the applicant was not in attendance; the Chair opened the public hearing and explicitly left it open before taking the deferment motion. Commissioner Bryrington moved to defer the SUP to the Oct. 3 meeting with the public hearing to remain open; the motion was seconded and passed on a voice vote.

Staff asked to receive contact from the applicant and to provide more detail to commissioners prior to the October meeting. The commission will revisit the item with any written VDOT comments, the applicant present to address access/safety concerns, and any updated site plans.