ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, December 12, 1996 TAG: 9612120066
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-5 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: S.D. HARRINGTON STAFF WRITER
The Salem Planning Commission voted 3-2 Wednesday night to deny a subdivision of the 10-acre Oakey Field on East Main Street into two parcels. One of the parcels, a 6-acre tract, would have been sold to two Western Virginia car dealers.
In September, the city signed a contract to sell the 6 acres - which include a softball field and a small football/soccer practice field - to Paul and Gary Duncan. The Duncans, a father-son partnership, wanted to build a used-car dealership.
But the sale wasn't final until the city first rezoned the land for commercial use and then subdivided Oakey Field into roughly 6-and 4-acre tracts. The 4-acre tract contains municipal tennis courts.
Despite a recommendation from the Planning Commission, City Council denied a rezoning in October. More than 130 Salem residents showed up to oppose the rezoning.
The Duncans then sued the city, claiming council's decision was arbitrary, with no legal basis.
The Duncans have asked Circuit Court to keep City Council's decision not to rezone the land from interfering with their plans.
Planning Commission members Ed Riley, David Robbins and Jennifer Joiner voted against the subdivision. Terry Murphy and Gardner Smith voted in favor of it.
Several Salem residents stated their opposition to the subdivision of the property Wednesday night.
"It probably wasn't too wise to sign the contract first and then ask if it's OK," Bob Paine said.
"I think you have a super fantastic mess on your hands," said former City Councilwoman Jane Hough.
LENGTH: Short : 40 linesby CNB