Commission votes to prohibit one person serving on both Planning Commission and BZA

The Anderson County Board of Commissioners discussed and then voted to prohibit dual service on the planning commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) during its May 18, 2026 meeting.

Law Director Jamie Brooks advised the commission that Tennessee law does not expressly prohibit simultaneous service on both bodies but warned that parties who appeal BZA decisions could perceive a conflict of interest and raise injunctive or certiorari challenges in Chancery Court. Brooks told the board that "Tennessee law does not prohibit simultaneous service on both planning commission and BZA," but recommended avoiding dual appointments because of the legal risk.

Commission discussion split: several commissioners argued that qualified volunteers are difficult to find and that many municipalities use overlapping membership; others agreed with the law director that appointing the same person to both roles could invite legal challenges and erode public confidence. After an initial motion to allow dual service failed, the commission approved a motion to prohibit dual seating. The motion carried by voice vote; the transcript does not include a roll‑call tally.

The commission directed clerk and staff to record the policy choice in the minutes going forward and to ensure future appointments account for the prohibition. The existing member serving on both boards was discussed; commissioners indicated the member would be allowed to finish a short current term but would have to choose a single seat thereafter.