City of Rocky Top

The commission reviewed an update regarding the city's slum clearance ordinance. New business included a discussion on the regulation of data centers, with a recommendation to allow them as a special exception in the M-1 Zone, and the review and approval of utility extension plans for water and sewer lines to support a business development on Colonial Drive. Additionally, staff provided information regarding upcoming planning commission training.

The commission granted final site plan approval for a commercial development project involving a medical office building, a restaurant, and a car wash. They also engaged in a discussion regarding the regulation of data centers, suggesting they be allowed as a special exception in the M-1 Zone, and formally approved the annual work plan for the upcoming year.

The board considered a request for a special exception for residential use in the C-4 Downtown Business District at 332 South Main Street. The board approved the request to permit three residential units at the rear of the building, with the stipulation that the storefront must be utilized for commercial purposes.

The meeting addressed several new business items, including a request from Main Street Baptist Church for the partial closure and sale of an unused portion of the 3rd Street ally, which the commission recommended approving for transfer to the church upon submission of a survey and purchase agreement. The commission also reviewed and recommended approval to the city council for a proposed zoning ordinance amendment concerning swimming pool requirements. In old business, the City Manager reported the approval of funds for the environmental assessment related to the Brownfield Grant for 225 Main Street, and it was suggested a special meeting be held for property owners. The Staff Planner noted that signage allowances in the zoning ordinance seemed excessive and committed to presenting alternatives at the next meeting.

The meeting addressed several key items under New Business. City Manager Mike Ellis presented proposed changes to the Definitions section of the zoning Ordinance, suggested by the city attorney, addressing terms like "warehouse and warehousing," "storage yard," and "wholesale business"; this item was tabled until the next meeting. The commission provided approval for the grant-funded Parks and Recreation ADA Project. Furthermore, the commission considered and granted approval for a revised site plan for the Main Street Baptist Church's youth building, which required relocating the structure from its original planned position.