Council approves rezoning for James King’s proposed community center and vendor park

Jackson City’s zoning committee voted to rezone two parcels on Highway 80 West (petition 4318) to allow a community recreational center, event venue and vendor park for owner James King.

Esther Ainsworth, zoning administrator, told the council staff recommends changing the parcels from C-80RE (Residential Estate) to C-80MU (Mixed Use) with annual conditional use permits for the proposed community recreational center and vendor park. The planning board had recommended approval by a unanimous vote, Ainsworth said.

James King, the applicant, said he owns about 10 acres on Howard Hayden and described plans for family-oriented events and a vendor park. “My goal is to bring a family oriented entertainment to the area,” King said, noting the site has remained undeveloped and that mixed use better reflects the Highway 80 corridor.

Council members asked about security, event types and potential noise. King said he works for the Capitol Police and will provide security. He said most activity would be during regular business hours and that occasional evening events might occur for special events.

Ainsworth confirmed there were no speakers in opposition at the planning-board hearing. The council moved the ordinance and voted in favor; the meeting recorded the outcome as unanimous (6–0). The permit conditions include annual renewal and adherence to building, fire, law enforcement and zoning codes; subsequent owners must apply for new use permits.