Fairfield County planning board approves rezoning for Ridgeway retail and event venue

The Fairfield County Planning and Zoning Board voted to approve a rezoning request for a 0.69-acre parcel at 1053 US Highway 21 in Ridgeway, changing the property from RD-1 (rural residential) to B-2 (general business).

Chair opened the meeting and introduced the item, identifying the property as tax map 186-01-14-008-000 and noting the owners as Kevin and Claritha Glover. Joseph, planning staff, told the board the comprehensive plan adopted in 2024 designates the area for urban expansion and encourages a mix of uses including commercial services. "Accordingly, staff suggests the the planning commission recommend approval of the rezoning request to county council," he said, recommending the board forward a favorable recommendation.

Claritha Laverne Pralow Glover, the applicant, described her local roots and business plans. She said she and her husband own the property and that she operates a medium- to high-end interior design and home furnishings business. "I would love to have the opportunity to extend that for small birthday parties and gathering," she said, explaining the request would allow occasional private events in addition to retail operations. She told the board the owners intend to maintain the property to a high standard and emphasized their familiarity with the Ridgeway area.

Following the presentation and public testimony, a board member moved to approve the rezoning; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The chair announced the motion passes and there was no further discussion. The action was taken by voice vote; individual roll-call votes were not recorded in the transcript.

The board had no additional business and adjourned the meeting.