Title
Vote to approve a legislative request for a text amendment to the Chatham County Zoning Ordinance by Gregory Smith to have the use of Recreational Facilities (gyms, yoga studios, et cetera) as a "P" Permitted use in the Industrial Light (Ind-L) zoning districts
Abstract
Introduction & Background: A legislative public hearing was held November 17, 2025. Planning staff presented the item and the applicant provided an explanation for the requested amendment. No one signed up to speak and no written comments were provided to staff.
Discussion & Analysis: This request is a citizen-initiated amendment to the Chatham County Zoning Ordinance to modify the Table of Permitted Uses in Section 10.13.
Currently the use of Recreation Facilities is a "P" Permitted use in B-1 (legacy district), NB, CB, and RB. This request is to also allow the use as "P" Permitted in the IL Light Industrial zoning districts.
The applicant stated that in many jurisdictions, warehouses and other types of larger buildings are being utilized for this type of use. He stated he has seen evidence that the upfitting, repurposing, and utilization of these otherwise abandoned structures has reduced additional rezonings on vacant properties, increases the land value, reduces waste, has community and economic value to the area, and allows for reinvesting in existing buildings.
The applicant understands that the use of any building will require additional permits if the amendment is approved, including building and fire inspections.
All applications for amendments to this Ordinance must address the following items:
1. The alleged error in this Ordinance, if any, which would be remedied by the proposed amendment with a detailed explanation of such error in the Ordinance and detailed reasons how the proposed amendment will correct the same. The applicant is not claiming any error in the Ordinance.
2. The changed or changing conditions, if any, in the area or in the County generally, which ma...
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