Board approves exceptional variance for convenience store with fuel pumps in Bells Ferry overlay, bans drive‑thrus

Zoning administrator Mr. Traylor presented a continued exceptional‑variance request for a convenience store with fuel pumps at 820 Bice Lake Parkway within the Bells Ferry overlay; the use requires board approval under Article 8 for neighborhood center zoning. Staff presented a stipulation letter with multiple conditions (building orientation, striping/signage, photometric plan, sidewalk relocation and fencing/gates, dumpster masonry, sensitive down‑lighting, and dedication of access and utility easements to the adjacent Quincy Apartments).

Mr. Hough, representing the applicant, described the project as four buildings—one neighborhood convenience store with fueling located behind the store—and emphasized design choices intended to integrate the site with the multiuse trail and nearby multifamily housing. Neighbors and nearby business owner Amit Patel opposed the fueling component: Holly Garcia said ‘‘we don't need another gas station’’ and complained about noise and traffic nearby, and Patel said local pump sales data suggest the market is saturated. Mr. Hough and other proponents argued the site is designated commercial under the LCI, that the design minimizes pump visibility, and that the development is intended as mixed‑use neighborhood commercial.

Commissioner Ragsdale moved to grant the exceptional variance with the applicant’s stipulated conditions and an additional county condition barring fast‑food drive‑through restaurants within the four‑building development; Commissioner Carter seconded. Commissioners emphasized architectural and access conditions (pumps behind the building, photometrics, fencing) and the motion passed unanimously. Chairman Johnson confirmed: ‘‘The motion carries unanimously and exceptional variance is approved with the stipulated conditions and the one additional stating that there should not be any fast food with drive thru on this site.’’