Monteagle Postpones Campgrounds in C-3 Decision
by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer
Following lengthy discussion at the workshop preceding the Feb. 6 Monteagle Planning Commission meeting, the commission decided to postpone for 90 days a solution that would allow a resident to move forward with locating a campground on Trussell Road on the far side of I-24 across from the Convenience Center. The commission also elected officers for 2024.
The proposed campground property owned by Randy Hill does not allow campgrounds due to Commercial C-3 zoning. Monteagle allows campgrounds in C-2, Residential R-3 (on review), and R-4. In looking at ways the project could move forward, Chair Ed Provost said the commission was considering allowing campgrounds in C-3 “instead of changing the zoning, which could be considered spot zoning.” Elaborating on the reason for the 90-day delay, Commissioner Katie Trahan said, “During that time the AIA [American Institute of Architects] group will be here…we’ll have an opportunity to hear their findings and hear community reaction to their findings. It’s very important to us the community comes out and meets with them.” AIA Community by Design advisors and planners will help the town draft a town plan to guide future development and growth. More details will follow on the community meetings with the AIA group scheduled for April 25-27.
Provost said town planner Johnathan Rush will draft an ordinance amendment allowing campgrounds in C-3 with Board of Zoning Appeals approval. During the 90-day waiting period, the commission will have ample time to review the ordinance change with a view to town planning considerations.
Turning to another project, Hill asked if he could locate a driveway on C-3 property to connect to a proposed commercial project outside the city limits. “The planning commission doesn’t approve or disapprove driveways,” Rush said, “unless there is a building permit associated with the driveway.”
The commission re-elected Provost chair, Richard Black vice chair, and Trahan secretary. Taking minutes will fall to city recorder Debbie Taylor to free the secretary to participate in meeting discussion and data analysis.