Board approves rezoning to M‑2 for small parcel; engineering review to follow at site plan stage

Marion County commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning request (case 251108ZC) on Nov. 17 to change a 1.6‑acre portion of a larger parcel from general agriculture (A‑1) to heavy industrial (M‑2), a move the applicant said would allow the contiguous Marion Masonry operation to expand.

Kathleen Bagnoli of Growth Services explained staff concerns about the parcel’s proximity to the Silver Springs Community Redevelopment Area and the primary springs‑protection overlay zone; staff recommended denial or, alternatively, rezoning to the less‑intensive M‑1 zoning. The planning and zoning commission recommended approval of the M‑2 rezoning.

Attorney Austin Daley, representing the applicant, told the board the parcel is effectively contiguous with existing M‑2 uses and argued the request was consistent with the Commerce District land use. Commissioners discussed springs‑protection requirements and were told that any M‑2 use that could affect groundwater would need a subsequent engineering demonstration at the development/site‑plan phase.

Commissioner McLean moved and Commissioner Stone seconded approval of rezoning the parcel to M‑2; the motion and the subsequent ordinance both passed unanimously. County staff emphasized that engineering and groundwater protections will be reviewed and required at development approval before any heavy‑industrial uses commence.