The Madisonville City Council held a public hearing during a special meeting Monday to listen to feedback from residents on a proposed zoning change for a new housing development on Shamrock Drive, ultimately voting to deny the amendment.
During the hearing, Zoning Administrator Mandy Todd outlined developer Ron Sanders’ request for a zoning change on behalf of the Westley Group.
click to download audioShe also explained current guidelines for agriculture and zero lot line zoning, noting their current uses by right with no changes to the ordinance.
Todd also shared the staff recommendations from the Joint Zoning Commission’s public hearing on the property.
click to download audioShe explained the necessary steps and approvals required before the plat could be recorded at the Hopkins County Clerk’s Office.
Todd also read a paragraph from the recommendation explaining the use of the Zoning Commission’s Comprehensive Plan.
click to download audioAfter Todd’s presentation, Police Chief Steve Bryan, Fire Chief Jason Eli, and Acting City Engineer Justin Lamb provided information regarding traffic, emergency response, and infrastructure coverage in the area.
The Council also heard from applicant Ron Sanders, who pointed to Madisonville’s population decline over the past 50 years and stressed the importance of promoting growth within city limits, as most new homes are being built outside Madisonville proper.
He noted that the development would allow for a maximum of 20 homes on the 5.27 acres, or fewer, depending on the size of each house built on the property.
click to download audioThe Council then heard from three residents in support of the zoning amendment and eight who opposed it.
After public comments, the Council moved to a closed session to discuss the zoning amendment, with Councilwoman Misty Cavanaugh recusing herself due to a conflict of interest.
After nearly 30 minutes, the Council returned to open session, where Councilman Adam Townsend moved to override the Joint Planning Commission’s recommendation and deny the zoning map amendment.
click to download audioThe motion passed 4-1, and the meeting was adjourned.
