Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Procedural Change topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commissioners decline to transfer special-use permit review to Board of Adjustment
Summary
After hearing from the planning board (which recommended denial) and the Economic Development Commission chair, the board voted to keep special-use permit review with the Board of Commissioners rather than transferring it to the Board of Adjustment.
The Person County Board of Commissioners voted on Nov. 3, 2025, not to approve a proposed text amendment (TA-14-25) that would have transferred review authority for special-use permits from the Board of Commissioners to the Board of Adjustment.
Planning Director Margaret explained the change would be legally permissible but noted the planning board recommended denial (4–2) and sought additional guidance about the reasons for the transfer. Scott McKinney, chair of the Person County Economic Development Commission, spoke in opposition, arguing that elected officials are best positioned to impose reasonable conditions and protect community interests.
Commissioners debated the timing and capacity of the Board of Adjustment, noting the board had only met recently after a long hiatus and that the county would need a clear appointment process to ensure qualified decision-makers. Given those concerns, Chair Kyle Preer moved to not approve the amendment; the board voted in favor of rejecting the change.
The decision keeps the current process in place: special-use permits will continue to be heard by the Board of Commissioners, with the possibility of future reconsideration if the Board of Adjustment is strengthened or additional guidance is provided.
