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Commission approves rezoning for convenience store at Nightbox Road by 3–2 amid neighborhood concerns
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Summary
The Planning Commission voted 3–2 to forward a rezoning recommendation for two parcels at County Road 220 and Nightbox Road (approx. 8.36 acres) to allow a Daily's convenience store with gas pumps and a car wash; nearby residents expressed concerns about lighting, noise, traffic and a 20-foot buffer.
The commission considered a rezoning request for approximately 8.36 acres at the northwest corner of County Road 220 and Nightbox Road (49 Fox Road) on April 7. Staff said the future land-use map is commercial and that the proposed rezoning from agricultural (AR) to community business (BB2) would bring zoning into conformance; the Oakleaf/Brannonfield-area CAC recommended approval (5–0). Applicant Jason Gabriel of Burr & Forman said the property has been held by First Coast Energy for roughly 20 years, described prior PUD history, and presented a site plan concept for a convenience store with fuel pumps and an associated car wash.
Neighbors spoke during public comment. Denise Robertson, president of the Boxwood Homeowners Association (adjacent neighborhood), said her HOA is "not opposed" to the convenience store but requested that the commission consider lighting, noise and traffic impacts — she noted current traffic challenges because of a nearby bridge closure and the lack of a turn lane on Nightbox Road. Resident Helena Cormier urged stricter controls and said she would have preferred a Planned Unit Development (PUD) rather than straight BB2 zoning to bind future uses.
Commissioners discussed buffering and site protections; staff explained the ordinance requires a 20-foot buffer, a 6-foot visual screen (opaque fence or shrubs) and evergreen plantings spaced 30 feet on center where commercial abuts residential. Staff also said the applicant committed to a filed site plan and that the county's development-review process would address photometric/lighting and noise concerns prior to building permits. Several commissioners urged careful photometric control and downlighting to reduce light spill into adjacent yards.
After discussion the commission voted to forward the rezoning to the Board of County Commissioners by a 3–2 vote. The applicant confirmed the tally immediately after the vote. The rezoning will be heard by the Board of County Commissioners on its next available agenda.
