Zoning Board Discusses Crematoriums

The Jefferson County Board of Zoning Appeals met at 6pm on Tuesday, May 27, 2014 in the Historic Jefferson County Courthouse.  The Meeting was Called to Order by Chairman Reneau. With a Motion from Board Member Springfield and 2nd from Board Member Shrader, the Minutes were Approved.

Bruce Claiborne, of Rest Haven, requested to have a crematory declared as an accessory use to a cemetery in A-1 zones areas. Claiborne stated that he is anticipating purchasing a building adjacent to his office (across from cemetery) for use as a crematory. He informed the Board that there is necessary state licensure that is to operate a crematory and that it is an environmentally friendly option. Following a lengthy discussion, the Board, with a Motion from Shrader and 2nd from Lakin, Approved allowing crematoriums in A-1 zoning.

The BZA adjourned and the Jefferson County Planning Commission Convened. With a Motion from Tucker and 2nd from Shrader the Minutes were Approved.

Upon a Motion from Scarlett and 2nd from Tucker, the Commission Approved the rezoning request from Dale Franklin/Bandi Hammer from I-1 to A-1 for property located at 638 Grove Road in Dandridge for use as a kennel.

The Commission Approved a review for a replacement of Roadside Market located at 2305 Hwy 11-E W Strawberry Plains by Dhara, Inc. The current building will be demolished and a new building will be constructed at the same location. The owner stated that he is anticipating staying open for limited services during the building process.

Attorney Jeremy Churchwell advised the Commission on the scope of a specific piece of legislation that relates to entertainment expansion directly related to farm products and commercial stock, as example by a corn maze.