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The County Commission has approved to rezone 18 acres along Awalt Drive from an agricultural to residential zone to accommodate a subdivision.

The commission’s vote was 14-1 at the March 20 meeting with William Anderson in opposition. Caroline Wiseman was absent.

David Eldridge motioned for approval, and his effort was seconded by Bruce McMillan.

Nearby resident Edward Stevens spoke in opposition about the rezoning, which was requested by property owner Tom Farrar.

Stevens said he believes the subdivision would devalue surrounding property and would promote other development that would be incompatible with the rural area.

He added, before the vote had been taken, that if the commission were to approve Farrar’s request, the county would be heading down a “slippery slope.”

“New developments should be considered on whether they are for the benefit of the community,” he said.

When the issue had gone previously before the Regional Planning Commission, which approved it be forwarded to the County Commission, fire protection and hydrants to serve the new development were discussed.

Farrar assured the County Commission that the development would not be an infringement on the surrounding area.