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A proposal to build an SPCA in Stafford to care for dogs, cats and other animals has met resistance from neighbors. |
BY JONAS BEALS
After months of discussion, debate and sometimes-heated presentations from the public, the Stafford County Planning Commission finally voted Wednesday night to recommend denial of a controversial conditional-use permit for a no-kill animal shelter.
The permit would allow a Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on 10.2 agriculturally zoned acres off Andrew Chapel Road owned by local businessman Bill Hoyt.
Neighbors have been outspoken in opposition to the project, and SPCA supporters have flocked to meetings in support. In the end, a majority of the commissioners decided an SPCA would not be compatible with the rural residential surroundings.
The 4-2 vote, with commissioners Ken Mitchell and Mike Rhodes dissenting, is only a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors, who will have the final say on whether the permit is granted. Planning Commissioner Gordon Howard was absent.
"When I consider this application," Commissioner Arch Di Peppe said, "I think about the neighbors first. Would I want this in my backyard? No. Is it compatible with the surroundings? No."
In an attempt to reach a compromise, commissioner Rhodes suggested phasing the SPCA construction and eliminating plans for a dog park for the time being. Hoyt was reluctant to make those concessions but stated he was willing to do what was necessary to build the SPCA.
"Hard work has never scared me away," Hoyt said.
His job has gotten harder with the Planning Commission's decision, but he will still have a public hearing before the supervisors, and another chance to try to convince county officials that his property is the right place for an SPCA.
Jonas Beals: 540/368-5036
Email: jbeals@freelancestar.com
