Soddy-Daisy commissioners send proposed C-2 zoning changes back to Planning Commission

The Soddy-Daisy Board of Commissioners on Nov. 16 held a public hearing and first reading on an ordinance to amend the city’s zoning code (Article II and Article IV) that would affect mini-storage facilities and outside storage of boats, RVs and campers in C-2 local business districts. Commissioner Penney described a Planning Commission recommendation that would have limited new outside-storage and mini-storage developments to locations more than three miles apart, and would have allowed mini-warehouses on lots that cannot obtain sewer or septic approval.

Commissioner Penney moved to approve the amendment with the Planning Commission’s suggested language removed; City Attorney Elliott confirmed the board could delete the 3-mile and 80% occupancy language. City Manager Johnson said the proposal was intended to give the Zoning Board of Appeals more discretion when approving or denying the use. Mayor Everett asked whether existing businesses would be grandfathered and able to expand; City Attorney Elliott said they could.

After discussion, Commissioner Keith asked to defer action and seek further Planning Commission input. Commissioner Penney withdrew his approval motion and made a motion to return the ordinance to the Planning Commission for additional review; Vice-Mayor Coleman seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

The board did not adopt the ordinance; it was returned to the Planning Commission for reconsideration of language regarding distance and occupancy thresholds and related zoning clarifications.