Development News for Smyrna, Tennessee

Bond Review Report: Extensions Granted for Several Development Projects

The commission reviewed the June bond review report, addressing several development projects nearing the end of their maintenance periods or requiring extensions. Walnut Ridge Section 1 and Stewart's Creek Cottages are nearing completion, with potential release if punch list items are cleared by mid-July. Short's Crossing Phase 2 and Derby Run 1A/1B are facing delays and require six-month extensions. Briarly Downs Section 1 Phase 2 and Hidden Hills 6/6 Phase 1 received one-year and six-month extensions, respectively, due to build-out progress and specific development needs. Hemsey Place and Stewart's Glen are also seeking extensions due to completion delays. The commission voted to approve the recommended extensions and actions.

Mobile Food Vendor Regulations Amended to Allow Longer Stays and Property Owner Permits

The commission discussed amendments to Article 4, Section 4.03.G regarding mobile food vendors. Key changes include extending the time limit a vendor can stay at one location from 40 days to 90 days per calendar year per property owner, requiring vendors to obtain a 30-day permit for a specific location (swapping from vendor-based to location-based permitting), removing the requirement for vendors to leave the premises nightly, and requiring property owners to obtain a permit and ensure code compliance. Sales would be restricted to C2 zones, with C3 zones removed. A site plan showing adequate parking would be required. The commission voted to approve the proposed amendments.

Church Redevelopment Site Plan Deferred Due to Design and Utility Concerns

The commission considered a site plan for the redevelopment of St. Luke's Catholic Church, involving the demolition of an existing 3,600 sq ft building and construction of a new 8,580 sq ft auxiliary space. Staff recommended deferral or denial due to concerns about architectural elevations not meeting design review standards (specifically, the percentage of metal on visible facades) and unresolved issues with fire department comments regarding hydrant pressure and adequate fire suppression. The applicant requested approval as submitted. The commission voted to defer the item indefinitely, citing the need for consistency with design standards and resolution of utility and fire safety concerns.

Zoning Ordinance Amended to Update Accessory Use Regulations for Detached Structures

The commission discussed amendments to the zoning ordinance regarding accessory use regulations, specifically focusing on detached accessory structures. The proposed changes alter square footage limitations based on lot size, adjust lot size thresholds, and establish new regulations for roof height. Key changes include a new table for maximum square footage based on lot size tiers (under 10,000 sq ft, 10,000-15,000 sq ft, etc.), with percentages for lot coverage (30% for smaller lots, 35% for larger ones). The maximum height for detached structures is also addressed, with a maximum of 18 feet if the principal structure is single-story and under 18 feet. The commission voted to approve the amendment with a modification to increase the maximum square footage from 1,000 to 1,200 sq ft for lots between 15,000 sq ft and 0.49 acres.