Commission recommends denial of Wellsville Safe Storage rezone amid corridor-preservation concerns

The Cache County Planning Commission on May 8 recommended denial to County Council of an application by Wellsville Safe Storage LLC to rezone about 8 acres from agricultural to commercial. Commissioners said the request conflicts with corridor-preservation goals and raised access and context concerns.

Staff summarized the application and noted previous denial of an industrial rezone for the parcel earlier in the year. Applicant Mike Baldwin told the commission the project would provide storage units and that he expects Wellsville City to annex the property in the future; he said similar projects have worked in nearby communities.

Opponents included a representative of the Merrick Oaks Heritage Center, who read an opposition letter arguing the proposal is "inconsistent with the preservation goals" of the Cache County general plan and would undermine the valley’s agricultural character. Landowner Margaret Christiansen Bosworth said she and her family have repeatedly discussed options with prospective buyers and that maintaining an attractive landscape is important to them.

Commissioners debated property rights and open-space goals. One commissioner noted the county has previously permitted commercial uses in other corridor locations; another emphasized traffic and access constraints on the minor local road where the parcel sits. After discussion, Commissioner 9 moved that the commission recommend denial to County Council based on the item’s conclusions; the motion was seconded and approved.

The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to County Council for final consideration. Staff said it will include the public comments and letters submitted with the record.

Proponents may present additional materials or request the parcel be annexed by Wellsville City; opponents may pursue County Council review.