by Patty Cheffey
The Marion County Commission remanded a controversial planning and zoning issue back to the Marion County Planning and Zoning Commission.
Commissioners on Monday morning suggested Matt Courtney consult with surrounding neighbors to his proposed paintball fields to work out some restrictions before going back in front of planning and zoning.
Eastern District Commissioner Larry Welch expressed his support for the project, and Presiding Commissioner David Lomax indicated he also felt it was a good project.
However, both said they believed Courtney needed to work out some restrictions to satisfy some of the concerns of nearby property owners.
Jamie Redd, who owns a subdivision adjacent to the property asked that Courtney be required to have a 50 yard (150 feet) setback just as he is required to have that same 50 yard setback to put buildings on his lots.
Redd and one of the persons who has purchased a lot and is ready to break ground also expressed some concern about property value.
Two neighbors also expressed concerns about noise levels and hours of operation and asked if restrictions could be put on those.
While restrictions can be put in place, Susan Gard, vice-chair of planning and zoning, noted those still have to be enforced.
Gard also noted the planning and zoning board had given Courtney several “good, solid” instructions for a more complete plan.
