Long County commissioners table rezoning for boat and RV storage after resident objections

The Long County Board of Commissioners on Nov. 18 tabled a rezoning request for a proposed boat and RV storage facility, voting 4–1 so newly appointed District 5 Commissioner Benji Strickland could review the application.

Elliot Wilson of ME Sack Engineering, representing the applicant, told the board that "the property is unsuitable for residential development due to existing wetlands and insufficient space for a septic system and drain field, as delineated by the Army Corps of Engineers," and said the applicant sought approval to convert the parcel to C‑1 with a special condition limiting use solely to boat and RV storage.

During public comment, resident Al Paderick raised safety and access concerns for PeeWee Drive given large trailers, warned of potential drainage problems, and said he feared the site could later be commercially developed beyond storage. Resident Jerry Young cited possible surface and groundwater pollution risks because the area relies on septic systems and sits over an aquifer, and recommended the board consult water‑conservation and environmental experts before approving any land‑use change.

Commissioner John Reddish moved to table the decision until Commissioner Strickland could review the file; Commissioner Gerald Blocker seconded. Commissioner Jeremy Hall voted Nay and the motion passed 4–1. The board had earlier opened and closed the public hearing on the item by unanimous vote.

The tabling pauses any rezoning action until Commissioner Strickland has had an opportunity to evaluate the proposal and the public concerns raised. The board did not adopt conditions or a final decision on whether the property may be used for boat and RV storage.