NEWPORT- The Newport Planning Commission discussed a subdivision plat regarding property owned by Charlotte Mims on the Cosby Highway between Waffle House and TDOT headquarters. According to Cole, this is a preliminary draft. The final draft will be in compliance with the city's regulations, showing all five-plus acres subdivided. In addition, signatures will be submitted at the meeting.

      The final items on the commission's agenda included a site-plan approval for a Holiday Inn Express to be located at the Mims property. Commissioner Jim McSween noted the plan had a few problems, curved entrances being one. Cole assured commissioners a subdivision plat would be approved at the next meeting. State Planner Albert Teilhet said a state meeting of zoning appeals might have to be held for approval of the plans. Cole said the commission's goal is to improve on the site plan as a safety precaution. A lawyer representing Holiday Inn Express was present and agreed that precautionary measures would improve the safety of the area. Further discussions regarding the property were tabled until the next planning commission meeting.

      The Newport Board of Zoning Appeals approved a front yard setback variance of 14-feet for an accessory building located at the residence of Paul Hilton, 539 North Street.

      Newport Planning Director Walter Cole board members the front yard setback requirement is 30-feet but Hilton would have to back his vehicle into North Street to exit his property under that specific guideline. Newport Mayor Connie Ball asked Cole to define "accessory building." Cole said in this case, the accessory building is a prefabricated structure available at stores such as Lowe's or Wal-Mart that are then placed on site.

      Interestingly, Cole said many people aren't aware that prefabricated buildings, though usually small, are required to have a building permit when set on property. Cole told the board he has not received any complaints regarding the 14-foot setback. In addition, Hilton was able to provide consent from his neighbor. A motion was made in favor of the variance and then approved.

      An additional setback variance was granted for property to be used as a Habitat For Humanity home site. The property calls for a front yard setback variance of 17-feet and a rear yard setback of 15-feet. The area is in a vacant lot on Mulberry Street between Ruble and Woodlawn avenues. Board members approved the variance prior to adjournment.