Smithville aldermen unanimously approve Weatherstone II plat, advance battery storage rules and first ADU permit

The Smithville Board of Aldermen unanimously approved final plat and zoning items on April 21, advancing the Weatherstone II subdivision and moving to regulate battery energy storage systems while granting a first-reading approval for an accessory dwelling unit application.

Alderman Marv Atkins moved to approve Bill No. 3110-26, the Weatherstone II single-phase final plat, and Alderman Dan Hartman seconded. There was no discussion; the board approved first and second readings by roll call, each 6-0, and Mayor Boley declared the bill adopted.

Development Director Jack Hendrix told the board the proposed Bill No. 3111-26 adds clear, parcel-based standards for battery energy storage facilities that previously were permitted only by conditional use. Hendrix said staff adapted an ordinance from another community and worked with the Fire Protection District to focus the rules on known safety risks. "The ordinance focuses on fire safety concerns and known issues experienced by other communities," Hendrix said. Alderman Hartman asked about minimum parcel-size requirements and whether multiple parcels could be treated collectively; Hendrix recommended keeping parcel-based rules to avoid complications related to financing and long-term land ownership. The Board approved first reading of Bill No. 3111-26, 6-0.

Building Inspector Will Stubbs presented the first accessory dwelling unit (ADU) conditional-use application for a detached ADU at 1600 East Main Street, submitted by the Richardson family. Stubbs said the proposal meets the city’s ADU standards for single ownership, lot coverage, separation from the primary dwelling and size limits. He added that the fire district raised concerns about vehicle access: Chief Cline told staff the site’s gravel driveway and distance from the road could limit large fire-truck access during heavy rains; homeowners were notified of those constraints. Alderman Atkins moved and Alderman Hartman seconded approval for the ADU first reading; the motion passed 6-0.

Alderman Melissa Wilson earlier reported on planning activity: Clay Creek Meadows Phase 2 is moving forward with building permits expected soon and 29 permits already issued this year; the Kay Furniture rehab is nearing completion and will house a relocated Pizza Shoppe; and an application is anticipated for a standalone retail development on a previously burned site.

What’s next: Bill No. 3111-26 advanced on first reading to allow staff and interested parties to continue technical review and public comment; the ADU will proceed under the city’s conditional-use process. The Weatherstone II plat is approved and may move toward permitting and construction.