Planning commission approves annexation of 0.36‑acre parcel at 863 Central Church Road into Morristown with MHP zoning over resident objections

The Morristown Regional Planning Commission on Jan. 13 recommended annexation of a vacant 0.36‑acre parcel at 863 Central Church Road (parcel ID 032040 07801) into the city with Mobile Home Park (MHP) zoning, voting 5–3 to forward the annexation. Planner Sabrina S. Tomassoni said the parcel adjoins existing MHP property, can be served by city utilities and is not in a flood plain (map 47063C0130E). Tomassoni emphasized that the request was for annexation only and that the property owner would need to submit a full site plan and return to the commission for development review.

Several nearby residents spoke in opposition. Anita D'Hundt (838 Central Church Rd) and others cited general opposition to mobile home park expansion. Donna Cantrell, the surveyor hired by the property owner, said the owner may install a turnaround if annexation is denied and that "without the annexation the owners may put in a turnaround and cost would be a deciding factor."

Community Development staff and the mayor urged the commission to evaluate the annexation on its land‑use merits rather than property‑maintenance issues. Steve Neilson, the Development Director, said code violations in the mobile home park have been addressed and told the commission "the staff's recommendation is approval." Mayor Gary Chesney reminded the commission the item before them was annexation only, not approval of development details. Councilmember Robert (Bob) Garrett spoke about the park's history. Vice‑Chairman Jack Kennerly urged objective review. The commission voted 5 in favor and 3 opposed.

If the city council approves annexation on two readings, the owners must submit a site plan for Planning Commission review before the parcel may be developed as part of the park.