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Somerset County backs correcting a 50‑year zoning error on the Maynards property in Rockwood
Summary
County staff told commissioners a long-standing zoning error had classified the Maynards parcel as residential; commissioners authorized the county administrator to sign an opinion letter supporting correction of the zoning so owners can restore a historical restaurant and consider limited development.
Somerset County commissioners voted to authorize the county administrator to sign a county opinion letter supporting correction of an apparent half‑century zoning error affecting the Maynards property in Rockwood.
Staff described the parcel (about 83 acres) as historically used for a restaurant and camp facilities but listed under residential zoning. The new owner discovered the mismatch when considering redevelopment and asked to rezone the main lot to a general development designation so the restaurant could reopen and the owner could consider an RV park and other limited commercial uses.
A county planning staff member explained the county’s role as advisory for rezoning and noted a different board or commission referenced in the record has final authority; the county’s opinion does not override the final zoning authority. Commissioners said correcting an obvious zoning error for a long‑standing historical use is appropriate and that the change should not be read as approval for any specific future development plans; those would undergo separate reviews.
On a voice vote the board authorized the administrator to sign the county’s response to the rezoning petition. Staff said future development proposals would return for regulatory review and any approvals required under land‑use law.
The discussion establishes the county’s formal input to the rezoning process; the ultimate decision rests with the zoning authority noted during the meeting.
