Planning commission approves rezoning for Compassion Ministries over staff recommendation and neighborhood opposition

The Springdale Planning Commission voted 5-3 Nov. 4 to recommend rezoning a property owned by Compassion Ministries LTD from P1 (professional) to SF2 (single family) so the nonprofit could sell the house. Jennifer Samuel, executive director of Compassion House, said the sale was necessary because the nonprofit faces financial strain and needs to sell the property to stay solvent.

Planning staff recommended denial, saying the rezoning conflicted with the comprehensive land use plan and noting close proximity to a 24‑hour nursing facility; staff suggested an alternative O1 (neighborhood office) zoning that would allow a single‑family dwelling as a use unit. During public comment, Isaac Mooneyham said he has a purchase contract and needs single‑family zoning to obtain a mortgage; Cliff McKinney, attorney for SP West RE (the nursing facility owner), said his client had filed a lawsuit over the property rights to a shared driveway and argued the matter was premature while litigation is pending.

Commissioners discussed timelines and alternatives; the city attorney advised that a decision could be made despite the pending lawsuit unless it claims ownership of the entire property. After discussion, the commission voted 5-3 in favor of the rezoning request; staff will prepare an ordinance to be heard by city council on Nov. 28. The transcript records both housing‑stability concerns from the nonprofit and legal objections from the neighboring institutional owner.