A supporter of a proposed zoning plan for Summit Street asked McComb selectmen Monday for a prompt resolution on the matter.
The city’s Planning Commission will review the competing Northeast McComb plan and Burglund plan for mixed-use zoning on the street on Sept. 21.
Selectmen heard comments on the matter at last week’s board meeting and sent it back to the City Planning Commission after some selectmen raised concerns over alcohol sales that would be allowed by the Burglund Plan.
Also interjected into the debate is a proposed redevelopment project by the McComb Housing Authority, whose officials said they prefer to not see alcohol sales near their properties.
Summit Street business owner Ron Gibson, a supporter of the Burglund Plan, approached the board and asked for a decision on the matter.
“These concerns are setting us further back,” he said. “Two years it’s taken us to rezone. Everything the board does holds us back.”
He said he was frustrated that the presence of three churches, a daycare center and housing projects prevent the opening and operating of bars, which would be allowed under the Burglund Plan.
The Burglund Plan recommends Summit Street keep its mixed-use character, in which homes are mingled with businesses. The Northeast McComb Plan, an alternative supported by Sonja Norwood and Sherry Robinson, would shift the commercial zoning to the south end of the street and increase restrictions on alcohol sales.
Gibson said acquiring business loans in the 600 to 1100 blocks of Summit Street is difficult because of unsettled zoning issues.
Selectman Melvin Joe Johnson questioned the need for a mixed-use zone, adding he didn’t see a lot of residential building activity on the street.
Gibson responded, “What idiot would come to Summit Street to build a house?”
He noted a petition supporting the Burlgund Plan and asked the board to side with the supporters, regardless of selectmen’s wishes.
“I’ve seen that petition,” Johnson said. “Half of the names do not live in that area. A lot of them live out of town.”
Selectman Robert Earl Smith reiterated the board’s concerns over “bars and jukejoints” in the area.
