The most notable issue addressed during the meeting was a request by Troy Holdings LLC to change the zoning from BU1A to BU2 for a property intended for a storage unit facility. Residents, including Steve Duchek and his daughter Maggie, voiced their apprehensions. Duchek, a long-time resident, emphasized the predominantly residential nature of the area and questioned the necessity of the facility, pointing to past failed proposals like a car wash. He expressed skepticism about the commission’s motives and the potential disruption to the neighborhood’s character.

Maggie Duchek, an engineer, shared her concerns about vague language in the development plan, which could allow for other BU1 uses if the storage facility isn’t constructed. She appreciated improvements in the proposal but remained uneasy about future developments under the new BU2 classification.

Residents highlighted potential issues such as noise from activities like vehicle maintenance, which could occur late at night, and the need for a solid 8-foot wall to protect against noise and security threats. Concerns about past instances of homeless encampments and the property’s maintenance were also raised. The resident stressed the importance of solid construction materials and a clean appearance to ensure the development doesn’t detract from the neighborhood.

Commissioners discussed the implications of the zoning changes, particularly if the storage facility wasn’t built, and the possibility of other uses under the new classification. They emphasized the importance of recording the Binding Development Plan (BDP) to restrict the property’s use to agreed-upon outdoor storage, addressing the residents’ concerns about maintaining neighborhood integrity.

Another topic was the zoning change request by Wayne and Laura Brassette, represented by Kim Rosena, for a mobile home sales facility. The proposed change from BU1 to BU2 aimed to accommodate the facility on a 2.5-acre parcel near existing commercial uses. Despite concerns about potential flooding and crime, Rosena assured the commission that the site would be fenced and include stormwater management measures. Commissioner Goodson sought clarification on existing mobile home definitions, while Commissioner Delaney proposed a BDP to limit the use to mobile home sales, which passed unanimously.

In a separate matter, the commission reviewed a small-scale comprehensive plan amendment requested by Ryan and Sarah Lawan. They sought to change the future land use designation from residential 1 to residential 2.5 to allow for residential development. The couple expressed excitement about building their first home and noted community support for their request. The board approved the future land use change and subsequent zoning change unanimously.

The meeting also included lighter topics, such as the approval of a conditional use permit for alcoholic beverages at Kings Duck Inn, anticipating its reopening with a new menu and outdoor patio on May 15th. Additionally, a waiver request from CNC Crane Works to allow alternative fencing instead of a masonry wall was approved without objection.