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Planning commission recommends approval of two-site campground in Sugar Grove
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Summary
The Smyth County Planning Commission unanimously recommended July 24 that the Board of Supervisors approve a special use permit for a year-round, two-site campground at 860 Flat Ridge Road in Sugar Grove; the applicants said stays will be limited to two weeks and reservations will be handled through Hipcamp.
The Smyth County Planning Commission voted unanimously July 24 to recommend that the Board of Supervisors approve a Special Use Permit for a two-site, year-round campground at 860 Flat Ridge Road in Sugar Grove.
Clegg Williams, assistant county administrator for development, told the joint public hearing that Ryan and Allison Groulx submitted a site plan and affidavit for the Agriculturally/Rural–zoned parcel (Tax Map No. 71-A-112), that public notice requirements were satisfied and that no written public comments had been received. He said the request is subject to Sections 3-2, 6-2.3 and Article 10 of the Smyth County zoning ordinance.
Applicants Ryan and Allison Groulx, attending virtually, described the proposal as a single guest campsite in addition to their personal site on the property. They said the operation would be year-round, would use a “pack in/pack out” trash policy and that reservations, insurance and liability would be managed through Hipcamp. The Groulxs said the septic system is installed and approved, electric service is installed but awaiting final approval, and a water meter was scheduled for installation.
When Board member Jason Panis asked whether stays would be restricted, Ryan Groulx said he was not seeking long-term stays and planned to limit bookings to a maximum of two weeks, which he said can be enforced through Hipcamp.
During the resumed Planning Commission session staff asked about VDOT approval and floodplain considerations. The applicants said an entrance permit application is on file with VDOT, they have an elevation certificate for the property and will ensure electrical components meet applicable regulations.
Commissioner Paul Shepherd moved that the Planning Commission recommend approval of the Special Use Permit, saying the proposal meets the criteria of Article 6-2.3. Commissioner Graham Davidson Jr. seconded the motion. The motion passed 7-0, with Buchanan Jr., Campbell, Davidson, Dean, Meadows, Shepherd and Wagoner voting yes.
The Planning Commission forwarded its recommendation to the Board of Supervisors. The commission adjourned at 7:10 p.m.