The Gate City Town Council has postponed decisions regarding zoning amendments and food truck regulations, awaiting further discussion during a work session scheduled for November 13, 2023. This decision follows a council meeting where three public hearings were conducted concerning proposed changes to residential zoning, a mural permit, and commercial building regulations.
During the meeting, the council reviewed a proposal to amend R-1 and R-2 residential zoning to allow for tiny homes measuring 400 square feet or less. Comments from town Planning Commission member Vickie Roberts, who later resigned from her position, highlighted concerns about the utility requirements for these homes. Town Attorney Michele Brooks clarified that state building codes mandate tiny homes to be equipped with essential utilities and placed on permanent foundations. Additionally, each tiny home must be situated on a lot that contains a primary residence meeting all local zoning regulations.
Roberts emphasized the importance of ensuring tiny homes have individual utility service accounts. Other residents raised questions regarding enforcement of size limitations for tiny homes, with Town Manager Greg Jones explaining that while the town issues zoning permits, the county building inspector’s office is responsible for enforcing building codes. Residents also inquired about two structures under construction on Benton Drive, which were confirmed to be classified as residential but not tiny homes.
The council agreed to delay action on zoning matters, with Mayor Jamie Lawson stating that additional information is necessary to navigate the complexities of tiny home regulations and the proposed adjustments to setbacks in the C-1 and C-2 commercial districts. Lawson noted that many existing structures in the business district are already close to property lines or public rights-of-way.
Concerns were also raised regarding the impact of food trucks on local restaurants during downtown events. Council Member Allen Dougherty suggested that food trucks operating in Gate City should be required to pay meals taxes or obtain a business license. Brooks indicated that further research is needed to determine the legal implications of regulating food trucks, including potential requirements for temporary business licenses. This topic will also be addressed in the upcoming work session.
The meeting addressed two recent murals contracted by Gate City Frontier. One mural located at the intersection of Kane and Jackson Streets received approval through the public hearing process, while the other, positioned on the retaining wall of Sam’s Auto Service, has faced regulatory challenges. The owner of Sam’s Auto declined to sign a permit application due to concerns over liability for hearing costs. Roberts mentioned that a council member had allegedly contacted the owner, warning about potential legal issues related to the mural.
Lawson reassured attendees that the council supports the murals, asserting that “Council is not going to remove the mural,” as it contributes positively to the community. Steve Adkins from Gate City Frontier expressed a desire to resolve the situation amicably.
The council’s work session will be held at 6 p.m. at Town Hall on November 13. The regular council meeting has been rescheduled to November 18 at 6 p.m. due to Veterans Day.
