Board questions whether proposed Sensible Automation site fits 'industrial' or 'business' designation

Melissa Payne, zoning administrator, presented an application by James and Carina Catlett to rezone 5 acres at Highway 106 from A1 to I to allow operation of Sensible Automation Solutions LLC, a machining and metal‑fabrication business the applicant currently operates in Alpharetta. Payne read the applicant’s description: "He describes the nature of the business as a light industrial with low impact, with only two to four employees operating on standard business hours." She said the building would be about 6,000 square feet, customers would not typically come to the property, and truck traffic would be minimal.

Staff noted the request is inconsistent with the South Madison comprehensive plan, which emphasizes residential and business growth rather than industrial uses in that character area. Board members pressed for clarity on whether the operation should be categorized as "business" or "industrial," and asked planning staff (repeatedly referenced as "Mike" in the discussion) to provide a tighter definition of light industrial before the public hearing. The board cited nearby uses — a brewery, a trailer park, a school and an EMT station — in weighing impacts.

Board members listed the regulatory requirements that would attach if the site is rezoned to industrial: engineered site plan, stormwater management, parking and paving (driveway and apron), GDOT approval for access, and landscaping at the right‑of‑way. Several members suggested the operation appears to be low‑intensity manufacturing that might fit in a business zoning category if staff confirms that classification; others warned that inconsistent definitions could invite many similar requests.

No final recommendation was made; the matter was set for a June 16 public hearing where the applicant will present plans and staff will be asked to clarify the boundary between 'business' and 'light industrial.'