Planning commission recommends approval of Smith family’s small-scale future land use change

The Gadsden County Planning Commission recommended approval of a small-scale future land use map amendment for two parcels on Aspillaga Road that would change the designation from AG-3 (one unit per 20 acres) to AG-1 (one unit per five acres), a change that would allow up to 14 home sites on the combined 72.48-acre property.

Planning staff presented the request and recommended approval as consistent with the comprehensive plan and land development code. Staff noted the parcel includes about 7.48 acres of wetlands and that utilities would be on-site via Talquin Electric and Talquin potable water with proposed septic systems.

Jennifer Smith, identified as an applicant and property owner, told commissioners the family intends to use the parcels as a family compound for children and grandchildren: “We want to raise our grandchildren here,” she said. Planning staff and commissioners discussed that AG-1 and AG-3 allow similar uses but would increase the number of developable home sites from three to as many as 14.

Two members of the public objected that the change could signal future development beyond family use, citing prior property investments and infrastructure concerns including roads and water pressure. Joseph Kennedy said the area’s infrastructure is “very poor” and that converting large timber tracts to multiple houses would change the nature of the rural community.

After public comment and a brief staff response, Commissioner Mark Moore moved to recommend approval; Commissioner Tammy Jimenez seconded the motion. The commission voted in favor, and the recommendation will move to the County Commission for final action.