Planning hearing set May 2 for Baptist Church parcel zoning change; developer proposes commercial use

Council members reviewed notice of a Kenton County Planning Commission public hearing scheduled for May 2 that concerns a map amendment affecting parcels listed in the packet (identified as 627, 629 and 635 W P) near the Baptist Church site.

City materials in the packet show the applicant seeks to change the parcels from R1G (single-family residential) to professional office. The materials indicate the existing church building would be demolished and the developer is proposing a commercial use (the packet references a bank layout and roughly 49 parking spaces). The council discussed likely parking impacts on Buttermilk Pike and noted the final details about building height and impervious area are subject to the developer’s permits and the county review process.

The council packet also included notice that the Board of Adjustments is scheduled to hear variance requests related to the same parcels on May 21. Council members were reminded that the Planning Commission will forward findings from PDS staff and that council traditionally avoids intervening in Board of Adjustments decisions.

Why it matters: The rezoning and associated variances could change land use at a visible corridor location, increase daily traffic and alter neighborhood character; the public hearing provides an opportunity for neighbors and interested parties to comment.