Hearing Scheduled Tuesday For Rezoning Request
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Jordan Bankhead (standing) plans to develop a 98-acre tract of property for a campground and other recreational use.
WATER VALLEY – A public hearing is scheduled Tuesday, January 2, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall for input on a property owner’s request to rezone a 98 acre tract on Hwy. 7 to C-1 Highway Commercial. Jordan Bankhead provided details about his request to city officials during the December 5 city meeting, explaining that his plan is to develop the property for use as a campground, walking trial and for other recreational activities.
Bankhead told aldermen that his property is current zoned Single Family Residential, which prohibits campgrounds. He also said adjacent property is already zoned highway commercial.
“The campground would provide more lodging options for the city, especially during events like the Watermelon Carnival,” Bankhead added. “My site plan would include a walking trial, bathroom and eight to 10 camper spots to start.”
“This would not be a permanent residence?” Alderman Ron Hart asked about the proposed campsites.
“No sir, we don’t want a trailer park,” Bankhead answered.
Bankhead reported that he is currently building a driveway across the property for access, adding the property is hilly and difficult to develop.
“That is the bad part. But the good part is it has natural beauty, a natural amphitheater setting with rolling hills. This is beneficial for my intended use,” he said.
Bankhead also explained that part of his property is adjacent to the old railroad right-of-way. Citing a longterm plan shared by the Water Valley Main Street Association to develop a Rails to Trails along the old railroad bed, Bankhead said his project would compliment the trail.
“I would be happy to provide parking if folks wanted to enter the trail through my property,” Bankhead told city officials.
The public hearing will coincide with the city’s monthly meeting held on the first Tuesday of each month.
