In a recent government meeting, the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed a zoning request from applicant Vasili Fokin, seeking to rezone a 12-acre parcel along Rochester Road, just outside of Sparta, from R-1 to Agricultural Residential (AR). The current zoning allows for single-family residences, while the proposed AR zoning would permit a broader range of agricultural and residential uses.

The property, which includes a single-family home built in the 1950s, was originally part of a larger 40-acre tract that was subdivided in 2015. The surrounding area is predominantly residential and agricultural, making the proposed change compatible with existing land uses. The commission noted that the land use plan supports agricultural or dispersed residential development in this area.

Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding potential traffic increases on Rochester Road, particularly due to the narrowness of the road and the possibility of new access points. Two residents voiced their opposition, specifically mentioning worries about safety and the potential for group homes being established under the new zoning classification. In response, Fokin clarified his intent to remodel the existing home and possibly subdivide the property for additional single-family homes, explicitly stating that he does not plan to develop group homes.

The commission unanimously recommended approval of the rezoning request, with discussions highlighting that the property does not contribute to existing stormwater issues in the area. The highway department confirmed that the parcel's drainage flows northward, alleviating concerns about exacerbating current drainage problems.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the rezoning request, which was passed without further opposition. This decision paves the way for potential development in a region that is increasingly transitioning towards agricultural residential uses.