Jackson Town Council Denies Swan Creek Zoning Map Amendment Request

In a pivotal meeting held on August 18, 2025, the Jackson Town Council deliberated on a significant zoning map amendment for the Swan Creek parcel, a 28.83-acre site located at the intersection of South Highway 89 and South Park Loop Road. The proposed amendment sought to rezone a portion of the property from rural residential to commercial residential (CR 3), a change that could allow for higher density developments such as retail and apartments.

Planning staff, led by Andrew Bonham, presented a recommendation for denial, citing concerns over the parcel's steep slopes and unstable soils, which pose risks for potential landslides and erosion. The site, historically known as the Simon Pit, has undergone reclamation efforts since its use for gravel mining in the 1980s. Staff emphasized that the proposed rezoning could permit up to 113,000 square feet of additional commercial space, contradicting the town's comprehensive plan aimed at limiting development in areas with steep terrain.

The council was urged to consider two key policy questions: whether the proposed higher density aligns with the future vision for the parcel and whether the property should remain zoned as rural residential to mitigate hazards associated with its topography. The planning commission had previously reviewed the application and unanimously recommended denial, echoing staff's concerns regarding environmental safety and the potential for increased traffic at an already problematic intersection.

During the meeting, representatives from Swan Creek LLC argued that the current zoning was a misclassification and that the area should reflect its commercial potential, given the surrounding CR 3 zones. They highlighted the historical context of the property and its extensive man-made alterations, suggesting that the site no longer serves its original rural purpose.

Public comments were limited, with one adjoining property owner expressing strong concerns about the site's instability and the implications of increased traffic. Ultimately, after thorough discussion, the council voted unanimously to deny the zoning map amendment, prioritizing the safety and environmental integrity of the area over potential commercial development.

As the meeting transitioned to other agenda items, including a conditional use permit for a wireless communications facility, the council's decision on the Swan Creek parcel underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing development with environmental stewardship in Jackson. The outcome reflects a commitment to responsible growth, ensuring that future developments align with the community's safety and sustainability goals.