Latimer Properties seeks light-industrial rezoning; transportation conditions recommended

Planning staff described a 12-acre rezoning request for property on Faulkner Lane and Ball Ground Highway to support commercial and light-industrial uses. The application seeks light industrial zoning for most of the tract and general commercial for a portion; the Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions and several concurrent variances (buffer encroachment, deceleration lane exemption, driveway spacing), while recommending denial of a front-setback reduction to 50 feet from the 75-foot requirement.

Transportation comments included potential requirements to widen Faulkner Lane as part of the land-disturbance permit, to meet sight-distance conditions prior to LDP approval, and a restriping recommendation to create a two-way left-turn lane on Ball Ground Highway. Staff also noted the applicant proposed to replant disturbed buffers and that some variances were recommended for approval while the front-setback variance was denied by the Planning Commission. Commissioners asked follow-up questions about hardship justification for the setback variance and whether pushing the building back could address driveway separation requirements; staff said the applicant cited existing site constraints, topography and a cell tower affecting layout.