HomeMy WebLinkAboutC.054.93011_1265 (2)Warren said the occupant would need a certificate of occupancy (verifications on how the
structure was being used).
Commissioner Johnson asked, assuming the request was approved, what type of
businesses could operate that might be more objectionable than a knitting factory.
Warren said the case did pose a problem with respect to determining what was
appropriate with the land use as well as the traffic. He said the potential for a truck terminal was
his major concern.
Commissioner Johnson said basically, nothing could be stated that might be anymore
offensive, it was just that associated activities, such as noise and traffic, might be cause for
concern.
Warren said the site did have good buffering. He said it was felt the future for the
property was best preserved as low density.
Commissioner Norman asked if there had been any complaints from the neighbors.
Warren said not to his knowledge.
Roger McLelland, applicant/owner said within a three-mile radius (Hwy. 115) 12
different business identities existed. He said out of the 12, he had always tried to operate as a
considerate business owner because he also lived in the area. McLelland said there were two
trucking companies within a one -mile radius, there were mechanic repair shops, furniture
refinishing, forklift repair businesses with outside storage, and a stained glass business with
outside storage. Additionally, he said within two miles, a business existed that contained four -
acres with outside storage of tractors, trailers, pickup trucks, concrete mixers, backhoes,
bulldozers, guard dogs, and so forth. He said the knitting operation had provided jobs since
1973, but now, the business was being impacted by China imports. Mr. McLelland said first
there was NAFTA, then came CAFTA, and now China. He said the planning department
referred to the request as a rezoning, but the manufacturing business had existed at the same
location since 1989. McLelland said he paid taxes at an industrial rate -- not residential
agricultural.
Robertson asked if the business operations were still occurring.
McLelland said some shipping and receivables were occurring, but it was a fraction of
the past. He said at one time, on a daily basis, four -tractor trailers might visit the business, but
there were never any traffic problems.
Robertson asked the intent of the rezoning. He asked if there were plans to shut down.
McLelland said the operation was being forced to close. He said, however, the
property wasn't on the market. McLelland said textile, furniture and manufacturing jobs were
being jeopardized.
Robertson asked McLelland where he resided.
McLelland said he owned adjoining property, but he lived three miles away in the
Central School area.
No one else desired to speak, and Chairman Tice adjourned the hearing.
Commissioner Williams said the business owners had been good neighbors in the
community, and they had supported the Central School PTA as well as recreational leagues. He
said the property had been well maintained for the past 17 years, and the owners had abided by
local rules and regulations along with being taxpayers. Mr. Williams said without the rezoning, it
was doubtful the building could be sold.