Four Oaks approves special‑use permit for boat and RV storage on U.S. 301 with Knox Box condition

The Four Oaks Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on Nov. 18 to approve a special‑use permit allowing a boat and RV storage lot at 5977 U.S. Hwy 301 S, with the condition that a Knox Box be installed on the perimeter fence for fire department access.

Planning and zoning administrator Mike Cook told the board that required public notice steps were completed and that the parcel lies within town limits. Applicant Stanley Cupp said the lot would be fenced with key‑code access, “well‑lit and have security cameras,” that every vehicle stored would be licensed and insured, and that hours of operation would be 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., with after‑hours access available for emergencies.

Town attorney Alan “Chip” Hewett led the board through the Chapter 160D four findings of fact required for the quasi‑judicial decision. Commissioners voted to find that the use would not endanger public health or safety, would not injure neighboring property values, would be in harmony with the area, and would conform with adopted land‑use plans. Each finding passed on unanimous voice votes, and Commissioner Mike Hines’s motion to accept the special‑use permit in its entirety — with the Knox Box condition — was seconded by Commissioner Kim Robertson and approved unanimously.

Mike Cook said public notice appeared in the FO Benson News in Review and that 24 property owners within 500 feet were mailed letters; the record shows no inquiries resulted from that mailing. The motion record shows the board attached the fire‑department Knox Box requirement to ensure emergency access.

The permit approval allows the owner to proceed with permitting and site preparation subject to the town’s permitting process and the installed safety condition. The board returned to regular session after the vote.