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Planning commission approves rezoning on Highway 53 East after owner cites traffic and market interest
Summary
The commission approved rezoning of 10.58 acres at 3228 Highway 53 East from Rural Residential to Highway Business to market the site for commercial uses; the vote was 6 in favor with one abstention by a member who arrived late.
The Pickens County Planning Commission voted April 13 to recommend rezoning 10.58 acres at 3228 Highway 53 East (Parcel 052A 022) from Rural Residential (RR) to Highway Business (HB), a change staff and the applicant said would increase the property’s marketability for commercial uses.
Planning and Development staff said the property is adjacent to Highway Business zoning and noted nearby commercial operations including a landfill and towing company; staff recommended approval citing compatibility with surrounding uses and suitability along a major transportation corridor.
Bobby Parrish, speaking for the property owners (the McAlileys), said the owners want to relocate because the noise and traffic — about 8,200 vehicles per day, according to the minutes — have become 'unbearable' for residential living. Parrish estimated commercial value at roughly $80,000 per acre and said he had two serious inquiries, including prospects related to landscape-material sales such as pine straw and mulch.
Nearby resident Keith Brooks asked what the phrase 'potential commercial' could include and expressed concern that multi-family housing or car lots might be developed on the site and be visible from his home. Commissioners and the applicant responded that the stated intent was to move the parcel away from residential use and that multi-family development was unlikely in this instance.
Board Member Jim Fowler moved to approve the rezoning per staff recommendation; Larry Brown seconded. The motion carried with six in favor and one abstention. Harold Hensley abstained because he arrived late and did not hear the full presentation.
The minutes note a recording limitation: some motions and seconds were indistinguishable on the video and are recorded generically in the official minutes.
