Commission approves plan for food pantry at 426 Main St.; parking agreement flagged as outstanding

The Ronceverte Planning & Zoning Commission on Jan. 9 approved a building plan review for 426 Main Street, a project proposed by the Ministerial Association to house a permanent Food Pantry. Reverend Bob Daniels presented the plan and described a stick-built structure with a loading dock, ADA compliance, a kitchenette and office, metal roofing and windows.

Daniels said the group previously housed the pantry at the Armory and later the old Arcade and that two board members purchased the property to establish a permanent location. He told the commission the estimated cost of new construction is about $240,000 and that demolition of the prior building cost $36,000, which depleted the association's funds; the group is actively seeking grants to help cover construction costs.

Commission Chair Wayne Peer noted that the rear parking area the pantry intends to use is not part of the church property but belongs to owners of nearby apartment buildings and "may need to be addressed." Mayor Deena Pack suggested the Ministerial Association seek a formal parking agreement with the church. Commissioner Leah Smith asked about signage and exterior materials; Reverend Daniels said landscaping, vinyl siding, and security were included in the building cost.

Dan Hart, the architect (as referenced by the applicant), was said to have assured commissioners that setbacks in the plans meet city standards. Following discussion, Rusty Arnold moved to approve the Building Plan Review for 426 Main St; Leah Smith seconded. The motion carried with all members voting in favor.

The approval clears the commission-level plan review step; the transcript records no formal conditions beyond the commission's advisory comments about parking and the group's need to secure funding. Next steps include obtaining any required permits and pursuing grant funding for construction.