The Algood Planning Commission recommended a rezoning request approval for light industrial land use on Phillips Cemetery Road..
Applicant Justin Grant said Church on the Hill intends to sell two pieces of property to pay off the church mortgage. Grant said the proposed buyer wants to develop the land into a business park and requested the change from general commercial to light industrial to accommodate specific setback limits.
“The idea for this piece of property,” Grant said, “Is to put in some business park flex bay warehousing like the business park on the Business Hub in front of UPS.”
Proposed buyer Michael Bartlett said the development will consist of single-story buildings designed for contractors and tradespeople. Bartlett said the units would likely be split into three or four spaces per building to serve as small offices and storage for businesses like HVAC companies.
“We plan to build a small bay flex space so we can have contractors, tradespeople, similar to what BizPark is doing,” Bartlett said. “Just one story, smaller flex spaces.”
Building Inspector Bob Lane said the proposed use fits the current development trends of the area and should not negatively impact neighbors. Lane said the location near a traffic light on State Route 111 provides a good entry point and noted that the nature of the business typically generates very little traffic.
“That area out there seems like it’s becoming all that same use,” Lane said. “I don’t really see a downside and didn’t have much time to think about it, but I really don’t see a downside, since that traffic’s got that red light, got a good way to get in there.”
Staff Planner Tommy Lee said the light industrial zoning allows for all standard commercial uses while adding the ability to host wholesaling and industrial operations. Lee said the developer will be required to submit a formal site plan to the Planning Commission for approval before construction begins.
“And if rezoned, you would have to submit a site plan to the Planning Commission when you before you start construction,” Lee said. “Show your stormwater and everything.”
Board member Buck Fowler said he wanted to ensure the public was properly notified of the “upzone” before the board took action. Board member Danny Richardson said the request will move to the Algood City Council for a first reading, followed by a second reading and a public hearing with 21 days of notice.
“I mean we could move it ahead, but I just want to make sure we’re not moving it ahead,” Fowler said. “How long– have you put a post in on the land to notify people?”
The board also reviewed sections of the new Land Use Plan focusing on the central business district and commercial corridors. Lee said the plan encourages the rehabilitation of aging structures and the enhancement of pedestrian connectivity along Main Street.
“It states that it’s along Main Street and serves as the historic core and focal point for local commerce and community identity in Algood,” Lee said.
The rezoning recommendation now moves to the Algood City Council for further consideration.
