Planning commission recommends approval of small‑scale land‑use change at 5150 Highway 77

The Washington County Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend approval of a small‑scale future land‑use map amendment for an 8.95‑acre property at 5150 Highway 77, sending the staff‑backed proposal to the Board of County Commissioners for a final decision on April 16.

County staff told the commission the applicant seeks to change most of the parcel from general commercial back to agriculture/silviculture while retaining about 1.8 acres for general commercial uses such as a small office or equipment storage for a construction‑related business. Staff said the property previously carried agriculture use, noted that public notice requirements were met and recommended the commission approve the amendment.

The recommendation matters because the change would allow agricultural enterprises on the bulk of the site while preserving a small commercial parcel at the Highway 77 frontage. Staff said allowable uses on the ag portion would include residential uses, accessory structures and one accessory dwelling unit; any specific building plans, ingress/egress and stormwater controls would be reviewed later during development review.

Neighbor Carl Schmidt, who lives on Pine Log Road, said he did not oppose the applicant’s intention but urged the commission to prevent use of Pine Log Road for everyday commercial access. “I have a problem with them using the entrance of Pine Log Road,” Schmidt said, warning that the back of the parcel sits about two feet higher than the road and that changing drainage could worsen washouts.

County staff told the commission that the commercial portion at the front of the site would have access to Highway 77 and that Pine Log Road is narrow and primarily residential; staff said the specifics of any future access off Pine Log would be addressed during development review and that Highway 77 access would be encouraged.

The applicant, who identified himself in public comment as Tony Bridal, said the development plans call for entrance and operations on Highway 77 only and that fencing would be placed well back from the rear property line. “It is strictly Highway 77,” Bridal said, adding that the commercial portion would likely be small office and storage rather than a large construction yard.

A family member, who identified himself as Tony Brennan Sr., spoke in support of the applicant and described modest agricultural aims — berries and fruit trees — rather than a major construction operation.

Chair moved to approve staff’s recommendation; a motion to recommend approval was seconded and passed by roll call with the commissioners present voting yes. The commission’s recommendation now goes to the Board of County Commissioners, which will take the final vote on April 16.