Planning commission pauses Mount Juliet Church of Christ plat to allow Greenway easement follow‑up

The Mount Juliet Planning Commission on Dec. 19 agreed to allow the applicant for the Mount Juliet Church of Christ final plat more time to consult the congregation and staff about a proposed right‑of‑way abandonment and a Greenway easement along Stoner's Creek.

Staff explained the consolidation plat (three church parcels into one) would normally be handled administratively but because the applicant also seeks abandonment of a portion of Second Avenue the matter required a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners. Staff pulled a prior PUD/condition and confirmed the original requirement calling for a 10‑foot Greenway along Stoner's Creek was subject to property‑owner approval and the acquisition of a public access easement.

Commissioners asked that the plat or the recommendation clearly record any easement or note regarding the greenway so future Greenway construction would have legal continuity. A church member who identified themselves as a church member at the meeting said they were not aware of prior discussions and that the church wanted “surety” that the abandoned right‑of‑way would prevent a future road improvement across the property.

Shane from Public Works clarified that greenways are allowed within the floodway but that structures cannot be built there; the commission emphasized that the bridge across Stoner's Creek and any recorded easement should be noted. Given the outstanding questions and to allow the church to consult its leadership, the applicant requested a deferral; the chair accepted the request and staff explained plat approval timeframes and the applicant's option to grant an extension.

The deferral will allow staff, the applicant and commissioners to develop specific language to record an easement or conditional note on the plat or to ensure the right‑of‑way abandonment and future Greenway work are coordinated before the item is forwarded to the Board of Commissioners.