RV Resort Parked by Planning Commission

A proposed Resort Vehicle park was denied zoning today by The Pickens County Planning Commission. Mr. Garry Fegely of Highway 136 Connector, Talking Rock requested a Conditional Use zoning change for his 25.75-acre tract.

The land is presently zoned agriculture. The proposal presented included an RV Resort park for temporary use for those wishing to visit the Pickens County area. It entailed 55 RV lots with a 4500 square foot commons activity barn  area for private parties including weddings and special events.

The proposed site was intended for seasonal use only. With vacancy for 9-10 months out of the year. Mr. Fegely appealed to the council by stating that there was no other RV resort around this area and his intention was to provide vacationers and visitors a place to park while enjoying the local scenery and Carters Lake. He went on to explain that he himself had a boat at Carters Lake that he and his family enjoyed.

The proposed zoning change was not a welcomed request. Neighbors bordering Mr. Fegely’s property showed up for the opposition and presented their case. Mr. David Rutherford, a neighbor of Mr. Fegely, presented a detailed report full of concerns in regards to the request. Of the many concerns mentioned were: Resident and land owner nuisance, Safety Concerns in regards to sanitation, as well as failure to meet zoning requirements.

Other neighbors present expressed concerns for traffic, possible environmental repercussions, privacy and noise issues in regards to the presence of an RV resort. Additional issues presented were neighbors not wanting to look at campers in their backyard and many desiring to keep the area rural. Mr. Michael White added with the opposition that he bought his land to raise his family and he liked the quiet.

The Planning Commission intently weighed the pros and cons of both sides presented. The request went to the floor for a vote and was unanimously denied.