Shoals restaurateurs pitch 150‑seat concept for Westgate; commissioners ask for site plan and access details

Todd Baker, co‑owner of Vomax Drive‑In in Shoals, told the Greene County Redevelopment Commission he and his wife are exploring opening a larger fast‑casual restaurant in the Westgate tech park area and asked the commission to consider available lots near the hotel and interstate.

Baker said the proposed venue would seat about 150–175 people, offer indoor and outdoor seating, a drive‑through and mobile ordering, and include a meeting room for rentals. He described the concept as made‑to‑order food with a modern presentation that pays tribute to the Shoals location.

Commissioners asked about the economics of an expanded seat count, whether the concept would draw base personnel and tech‑park workers, and how access would be accommodated off U.S. 231. Baker said the design gives flexibility on seating and that mobile ordering would serve morning traffic from the base and afternoon tech‑park customers; he agreed to provide more specific lot preferences, layouts and contact information to staff.

Chair suggested staff provide Baker with lot maps and asked for follow‑up on access, utility availability and aesthetic standards. No formal land sale or option was decided at the meeting; Baker said he would return with more detailed site and design materials.