The main focus of the meeting was the Tractor Supply Company’s proposal to enhance its existing site by adding a 1,280 square foot garden center and a 1,000-gallon bulk propane tank within a fenced outdoor display area. Civil engineer Josh Sewald presented the project details, highlighting that the garden center would house various plants currently displayed outside, while the propane tank would offer refilling services managed by trained staff. The proposal included maintaining existing circulation patterns and parking layouts, with no changes to drainage anticipated.

Safety and regulatory compliance dominated the discussions, particularly concerning the propane service. The board examined safety measures, including the use of ballards to protect the propane tank from potential impacts and adherence to local, state, and federal regulations, including the standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). A representative explained that Tractor Supply would employ 12 to 14 workers per shift, with two to three certified by the Propane Education and Research Council to manage the propane operations safely.

Further discussions addressed traffic concerns related to the addition of propane services. Traffic engineer Corey Chase reviewed the potential impact, indicating a manageable increase in traffic with no anticipated parking issues, despite a reduction in available spaces from 81 to 73. Chase emphasized the importance of improved signage and striping in circulation areas to ensure compliance with fire marshal regulations.

The board also tackled site compliance issues, discussing the need for improved concrete surfaces to address tripping hazards, especially for individuals with disabilities. The stormwater basin at the rear of the site required maintenance to meet previous board approvals, with a proposed maintenance manual to guide future upkeep.

The application included variances for a 10-foot fence height to accommodate the existing conditions, which differed from the original approval. The board considered the need for screening only at the front of the fence, as the rear was not visible. Additionally, modifications to the site plan were proposed to allow pallet storage outside the fenced area, delineating a specific zone for storage to avoid visual clutter.

Signage was another critical point of discussion. The applicant sought an 85 square foot sign for the garden center, intended to guide customers on-site. The board scrutinized the need for variances related to signage in a residential zone, and the applicant committed to removing any unauthorized advertising signs.

With no public members present to voice concerns, the board deliberated on the variances required to accommodate the proposed developments. These included a D1 variance for the garden center and propane tank, a D1 sign variance for the garden center sign, and C2 variances for the fence height and parking reduction. The board emphasized the importance of ensuring compliance with all conditions tied to the approval.