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Neighbors object as commission approves meat-processing facility in Chilhowie with conditions
Summary
The Planning Commission recommended approval for a meat-processing facility on Tattle Branch Road but imposed conditions — a one-cow-per-day processing limit and a privacy fence — after neighbors raised concerns about proximity, traffic, and potential impacts to a nearby spring.
On Oct. 26 the Smyth County Planning Commission recommended approval of Duane Witmer’s application to construct and operate a meat-processing facility on a roughly 22-acre property at 478 Tattle Branch Road (Tax Map No. 54-A-18) with two conditions: a limit of one cow processed per day and construction of a privacy fence around any outdoor portions of the facility.
Zoning Administrator Clegg Williams said notice had been published and mailed to adjoining property owners; he read a VDOT letter confirming a low-volume commercial entrance could be approved. Mr. Witmer described his proposal and answered questions from the Board and Commission.
Several nearby residents voiced opposition. Betty Waring, the closest neighbor, said she opposed the request because animals would be killed close to her home, and she cited concerns about increased traffic on a shared driveway and potential impacts on property saleability. Frank Branson said he supported a local processing capacity in principle but not at that site. Ed Eller raised concerns about potential effects on a nearby spring and suggested relocating the facility on the property.
After discussion, Commissioner David Spence moved to recommend approval with the two conditions; Commissioner Graham Davidson Jr. seconded. The commission recorded five yeas (Davidson Jr., Doyle, Spence, Wagoner, Shepherd) and two absences (Sparks, Pugh). The recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for final consideration.
