Heard County approves rezoning for diesel repair shop on Franklin Parkway with operating restrictions

The Heard County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved on July 15, 2025, a rezoning to allow a heavy diesel repair shop on a reduced 16.45-acre portion of property on Franklin Parkway, with conditions on hours and permitting.

The request was originally for 52.21 acres to be rezoned from Agricultural to Industrial. Dustin Pate of the Planning Commission told the Board the Planning Commission recommended denial of the original request. Applicant Chad Dorminey told the Board he reduced the requested area after that recommendation and asked the Board to approve rezoning the smaller parcel to Industrial.

During the public hearing, resident Phyllis Woodson spoke in opposition, saying she was concerned the industrial development could disturb local wildlife. The Board closed the public hearing on a motion by Commissioner David Walls and then voted on the rezoning decision.

On a motion by Commissioner James Perry and a second by Commissioner Larry Hammond, the Board approved the rezoning with explicit stipulations: the industrial use is limited to a 16.45-acre portion of the parcel; the property shall be used exclusively as a heavy diesel repair shop; operating hours are limited to Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. EST to 5:00 p.m. EST; and the business must meet all applicable federal, state, and Heard County permitting requirements.

The motion passed unanimously. Commissioners voting yes were Tracy McCormick, Curtis Mock, James Perry, Iris Harris, Larry Hammond, and David Walls. The Board did not record additional public testimony in the minutes beyond Woodson’s stated wildlife concern.

The rezoning will take effect according to county procedures once administrative steps are completed and required permits are obtained.