The conditional use application for Christ Centered Academics on Old Hickory Tree Road was a focal point of the meeting, drawing attention from both the Commission and the public. Associate Planner Stephanie Streer presented details of the application, which sought approval for a private school for up to 14 students, to operate from Monday to Thursday. Streer highlighted that the location’s existing zoning is R1B, designated for single-family dwellings, and noted the school’s previous failure to establish due to incomplete business tax receipt processes.

Public comments were invited, and James Moore, a general manager of a nearby business, expressed concerns about the potential traffic impact, citing issues caused by a church’s food pantry that already create road congestion. Moore also pointed to the school’s past, noting two shutdowns by the fire marshal due to unsafe conditions, including boarded-up windows, and questioned the school’s licensing history. He urged the Commission to scrutinize the school’s operational records.

In defense, Anette Moore, the owner and principal of Christ Centered Academics, refuted James Moore’s claims, insisting that the traffic issues were unrelated to the school and that the institution would maintain a small scale, akin to a one-room schoolhouse.

Commission members engaged in a discussion, referencing prior concerns about traffic from educational institutions in the area. Staff suggested adding conditions to the approval to monitor and address future traffic problems if they arise. A motion was made to recommend approval of the resolution, including a condition to cap enrollment at 14 students, which passed unanimously.

Following this, the Commission considered Ordinance Number 22482 concerning the annexation of a project known as Taria Santiago. Associate Planner Ralph Keith explained that the request aligned with statutory requirements and a joint planning agreement with the county. Public comments included concerns from a neighbor, Mitchell Brian Lee, who feared the annexation would disrupt the area’s rural character and affect his property. The Commission advised Lee to seek further clarification from staff.

The meeting also addressed Iris Tavaris’s request to build a home near her current residence. Tavaris emphasized her family’s desire for a forever home, particularly to support her daughter diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Her appeal underscored the personal dimension of zoning decisions and was met with understanding.

Greg Anelli raised issues about the division of properties between city and county jurisdictions, suggesting that it created confusion, especially regarding responsibilities like hurricane debris removal. His comments highlighted ongoing jurisdictional challenges within the city.

The Commission then shifted focus to several ordinances related to zoning and annexation. A discussion on comprehensive plan amendments for Hopkins Parks improvements was well-received, with members expressing support for converting residential areas to park and open space.

Another ordinance proposed changing the approval process for preliminary subdivision plans and final plats. Staff explained that allowing the city manager to approve these decisions would streamline processes, avoiding delays currently caused by requiring city council approval. The Commission approved the ordinance unanimously after clarifying the criteria for determining substantial compliance in subdivision plans.