Planning commission recommends rezoning 962 Sonoya Road to allow church; applicants had asked to table

The Tyrone Planning Commission voted to recommend rezoning Parcel 0738024 at 962 Sonoya Road from Agricultural‑Residential (AR) to C‑1 Community Commercial, clearing the way for an applicant to develop the site for a church.

Philip, planning staff, told commissioners the parcel — the former Harley Deaton property — lies in the town center character area and is already adjoined by C‑1 parcels on two sides. "The stated intent of this rezoning is to be able to develop the property consistent with C‑1 development standards for the purpose of locating a church on the property," Philip said, noting that future site planning will need to address curb access and shared‑driveway arrangements.

Representatives of Christ Church asked the commission to table the petition so they could revise timing, budget and layout. Val Akins, representing Christ Church, said, "At this point, we would just like to table the application," and Pastor Zach Fallon described the congregation as "a congregation of about 200 people" that has been meeting at Sandy Creek High School and is seeking a permanent facility.

Commissioners discussed whether the planning commission or the mayor and council should accept a tabled date certain; Philip advised that the commission should decide whether the zoning classification is appropriate and that council, as the decision body, can table to a date certain if it chooses. After discussion, a commissioner moved to recommend approval of the rezoning and the motion was seconded; the chair announced the rezoning petition was approved to move forward to council. The transcript does not record a detailed roll call or vote tally.

If the mayor and council adopt the rezoning, future site plan review will address design, buffers and access. The planning commission’s recommendation is advisory; final action rests with the mayor and council.