Plan Hamilton narrowly approved by Hamilton County Commission

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF)- The Hamilton County Commission approved a controversial growth plan Wednesday evening.

Plan Hamilton was passed by a six to five vote.

It sets new parameters around new residential construction in unincorporated Hamilton County.

Proponents say it sets responsible guidelines around density and infrastructure capacity while promoting the construction needed to meet demand.

However, opponents say it permits too much growth that the infrastructure can not handle.

Developer Jason Farmer said, “We are going up and up in price, and what we’re trying to do is to provide homes. I hope your grandkids move back here. I certainly hope my kids stay here and I hope my grandkids choose to live here in Hamilton County and that’s what we are trying to provide.”

Meanwhile, Commissioner Jeff Eversole, who had attempted to table the resolution and proposed amendments, said, “It’s going to cost this county major money down the road that we have not been spending in the past that we are going to have to spend to get caught up.”

The tabling and amendments, which would have further reduced density in certain circumstances, both failed.

Wednesday is also the first day the new Hamilton County Planning Department, who will oversee zoning cases in unincorporated parts of the county, is operational.

They will be using Plan Hamilton as a guideline during their decisions.