Nearly 50 members of the Jehovah’s Witnesses congregation
attended the county planning commission meeting to show their
support for a plan to expand their church.
Nearly 50 members of the Jehovah’s Witnesses congregation attended the county planning commission meeting to show their support for a plan to expand their church.
The church, at the northeast corner of Fallon and Fairview roads, is within an agricultural productive zoning district while the surrounding area is developed with lots between one and 49 acres zoned for agricultural and residential uses.
Church officials propose to expand the facility by 3,844 square feet with construction on the east side of the present building. The plan would increase the area to 9,173 feet.
The plan also calls for upgrades to include four additional hook-ups to serve the needs of the existing restroom facility.
The commission unanimously approved the application.
However, commissioners were concerned about traffic safety issues.
If road improvements were completed, Commissioner Murrill Conley was concerned about a four-way stop at the intersection.
Arman Nazemi, assistant director of Public Works, said the left-turn pocket would enhance the operation. Also, according to the traffic studies, a stop sign would be appropriate at the intersection because the east leg angle of Fairview Road is small in dimension.
“It is not a very good situation for turning movements,” he said. “Completing the turn often takes people beyond the center line.”
Another issued raised was who would be responsible for the paying for the road widening improvements.
Nazemi said because only an addition was being proposed, the applicant would not be responsible. Only a use-permit was being sought.
“I would like to see not only a four-way stop sign at this intersection, but I would like to see the flashing red lights,” Conley said. “With a four-way stop sign in both directions one should realize to act conservatively to safety.”
Chairman Jack Kent said the road work in the area was being done and there was nothing in the staff report from keeping the project from being approved.
“They have taken good care of the property out there,” he said.
Commissioner Pat Loe said she visited the facility and commended the applicants for doing a good job with the land.
