by Marty Trese, KnoxPages.com Managing Editor
MOUNT VERNON – Despite concerns raised by Monroe Township residents, the Mount Vernon Municipal Planning Commission Thursday voted unanimously to recommend an application from Dr. Rodney Beckett to change the zoning classification of 85 acres on Upper Gilchrist Road from agriculture to a mix of single family residential (59 acres) , general business (12 acres) and planned neighborhood districts (13 acres). Next, City Council will be asked to approve the rezoning request.
Property on Upper Gilchrist Road being considered for housing and business development – KnoxPages.com photo by Marty Trese
Earlier this year, council voted to annex the property into the city from Monroe Township. Upper Gilchrist Road resident Debbie McIlvoy spoke to the commission expressing concern about traffic and the removal of farm land. She says there are many empty buildings in downtown Mount Vernon and that’s where she would like to see new businesses go in.
City Council member Mike Hillier also spoke against the rezoning. He says he is for growth but would like to see a “proper plan.” He also cited traffic concerns and asked why the city is moving east and not onto the Harcourt Road area.
Dirk Demaree of Mount Vernon says there are few opportunities for new business construction in Mount Vernon. He said, “If we are not growing, we’re dying.” He says this is a minimal incursion east of Upper Gilchrist Road. It’s only 12 acres and it will not be a big box store or strip mall.
City Council’s next meeting is set for August 25 at 7:30 p.m. All meetings are open to the public and the agenda includes time for residents to address council members.
