Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Rezone Canton topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission recommends rezone for Canton‑adjacent property; applicant says he will retire from business use
Summary
The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a rezone that would remove dual zoning on a parcel west of Canton and return an outbuilding to residential use; applicant Michael Swenson said he plans to retire and keep the building for personal use.
The Lincoln County Planning Commission voted March 17 to recommend approval of a change of zone for a parcel just west of Canton, clearing dual commercial/residential designations and allowing the property owner to use a former business building for personal storage or residential use.
Nut graf: Planning staff recommended approval, saying the change aligns with the county comprehensive plan and the City of Canton’s future‑land‑use expectations; the commission voted to forward a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners following a roll call with multiple yes votes and one abstention.
Staff summary: Planning staff (Mr. Brown) explained the parcel’s history — a portion had been zoned commercial after a 1997 petition to allow a business within an otherwise agricultural parcel — and advised that removing the dual zoning would be consistent with both county and city plans.
Applicant remarks: Michael Swenson, who said he used the building for a chiropractic practice and fitness center for 27 years, told the commission he is retiring and prefers the parcel be zoned to match single‑family residential use: "I like where I live… I'm retiring. That's all I'm asking for," he said.
Vote and process: With no speakers in opposition at tonight’s hearing, Commissioner motioned to approve the rezone recommendation and the commission recorded a roll call with majority yes votes and one abstention. The Planning Commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Commissioners for a future public hearing and final decision.
What’s next: The Board of Commissioners will receive the Planning Commission recommendation and schedule the required public hearing; neighbors will be notified as part of that process.
