Bethel board unanimously rezones part of Parcel 009330 to Highway Business after public hearing

The Bethel Town Board voted unanimously to rezone a portion of Parcel 009330 from RA20 (rural/agricultural) to Highway Business following a public hearing that drew both support and opposition.

The planning board had recommended approval; the town attorney advised the board that state statute requires the motion include a finding that the rezoning is reasonable and consistent with the town’s land‑use plan. Owner John Gurganes told the board he and his sisters own the parcel and asked for the rezoning. Resident Philip Goodwin spoke in favor; Bethel resident Tricia Wirkaw spoke against the rezoning and urged more research before approving commercial uses.

After closing the public hearing the board voted to approve the rezoning of the specified portion of Parcel 009330, with the motion including the required finding of reasonableness and consistency with the town’s land use plan. The vote was unanimous.

Staff and the attorney noted that permitted uses under the Highway Business designation would allow certain commercial activities without returning to the board for separate rezoning approval; residents raised concerns at the hearing about future uses, signage and traffic impacts. The board’s action applies to the portion of the parcel described in the planning board’s recommendation.

The board did not adopt any additional conditions on the rezoning at the meeting; any specific permitting for future uses will follow the town’s standard permitting process.