Commission approves C2-to-M1 rezoning and variances for Gordon Highway property, grants paving extension

Columbia County commissioners approved a rezoning from C2 to M1 for a Gordon Highway property to permit towing operations alongside an existing paint-and-body use, and granted companion variances that affect setback, parking surfacing and an existing 10-foot chain-link fence.

Staff described the request as a conversion of a property previously used for small-engine repair to allow vehicle-towing and associated storage. The record shows several improvements were made without permits and the applicant sought variances to legalize the existing awning and parking arrangement. Staff recommended conditions that include paving of the customer parking area by the deadline in the planning commission report, septic inspection for the site, adding a fire hydrant if additional buildings are constructed, and an opaque screen for the storage lot.

The applicant requested more time to pave the parking area to allow the new business to generate revenue before completing the expense; commissioners agreed to extend the paving deadline to three years from today rather than the end-of-year date recommended by staff. The commission approved the rezoning subject to the May 7 planning commission conditions and separately approved the related variances with the modified paving timeline.

The approved variances allow existing nonconforming features (the front awning and gravel storage area) to remain under conditions that require stormwater analysis for the gravel lot and code-compliant repairs if the fence is replaced. Staff emphasized that future replacements must meet current code and that any additional development will require a fire hydrant and septic review.