Commission approves small plats and readies zoning work on data‑center resolution for Blount County

The Blount County Planning Commission approved two small plats and discussed next steps on a county resolution about data centers.

Thomas summarized E1, the Patent property subdivision (lots 1–4 off Laneir Road for Terry Patton and Nancy Hedrickk), noting outstanding title corrections and required signature plats and fees; the commission approved the plat with the listed conditions. He then reviewed E2 (Preferred Homes property, lots 1–3 off Pleasant Hill Road), listing standard outstanding items — removal of stumps and piled dirt, removal and inspection of an existing driveway on lot three, utility signatures and fees — and the commission approved that plat with conditions.

In miscellaneous business commissioners discussed a resolution the commission passed addressing data centers. Thomas said the resolution had not been formally transmitted to him but that he had begun reviewing it with the county attorney; the legal department will draft proposed zoning language and staff will test its viability. Commissioners emphasized any zoning changes would apply only to unincorporated Blount County and not to cities such as Alcoa or Maraveville. The chair and staff said they aim to bring the item back for discussion or a public hearing in the next meeting cycle.