Discussions to continue regarding Robinson Road rezoning petition

Some of the examples listed for possible zoning rules are that no business-related sounds should be audible from the dwelling; only low-impact businesses are allowed, such as professional services and office services, and there are required sidewalks and landscaping for homes that are converted to a business.

“These are examples of possible zoning ideas meant as a conversation starter,” Rudy said. “It’s a worksheet, and it’s what exists out there in other places.”

Residents at the meeting made it clear to the P&Z department members that they want the proposed zoning change to have the option of selling their homes in the future as part of commercial zoning, or to convert their homes into a business as part of the commercial zoning. If the commercial zoning request goes through, homes will be transformed to businesses rather than strip centers.

Oak Ridge North resident Al Overstreet said homes would be hard to sell as part of residential zoning because of the proposed construction to alleviate traffic on Robinson Road.

“Our intention is to not just take a fortune and up and leave,” Overstreet said. “Most of us are going to stay there. This is only giving us an option to sell our home in case.”

Cleo Tarver, chairman of the planning and zoning commission, told residents at the meeting the commission will continue to consider their request. The petition for rezoning will be a continuous agenda item at future P&Z deparment meetings.