Jefferson County planning commissioners approved a site plan for Timberstone Food Park on Tuesday after extended discussion about zoning, utilities, and public‑health requirements.

The applicant, represented at the hearing, said the food park would operate as a collection of food trucks and vendor stalls on a standalone legal lot opposite the Timberstone campground. Planning staff and commissioners noted the county zoning code does not specifically define “food park,” but that similar uses (restaurants, flea markets, temporary vendors) exist and that each vendor must meet health‑department licensing and inspections.

Why it matters: The decision sets a local precedent for how mobile and multi‑vendor food operations on standalone lots will be treated where zoning is silent. Commissioners highlighted the need for vendor health permits, fire protection access and potential restroom arrangements.

Key points from the hearing
Zoning and permits: Planner Stephanie and other staff told the commission the county’s zoning ordinance does not specifically include “food park” as an allowed use in A‑1, but comparable uses (restaurant, flea market, carnival vendors) exist. Commissioners emphasized that individual food vendors and trucks must obtain health‑department permits and inspections.

Infrastructure and safety: Commissioners raised concerns about fire hydrant access, restroom availability and traffic/ingress‑egress on Highway 25. The applicant said a bathhouse and restrooms exist on an adjacent parcel and that a septic system is installed that could support future restrooms if demand rises.

Vote and conditions: The motion to approve the Timberstone Food Park (item F) passed with a recorded tally of 4–3. Commissioners approved the site plan while noting that health‑department and building permits remain required for vendors and any permanent restrooms or structures.

Ending: The commission agreed that, while the county should consider drafting clearer standards for multi‑vendor food operations in future zoning updates, current code and state health inspections provide a path for approval when basic public‑health and safety conditions are met.