The Jonesboro Metropolitan Area Planning Commission has voted against recommending a rezoning plan for property adjacent to an elementary school in north Jonesboro. The decision followed significant community pushback.
The property, located at 2732 North Church Street next to the Jonesboro Math and Science Magnet School, is owned by KPT Investments LLC. Developer George Hamman submitted the application, stating the company was considering commercial developments such as an ATM or a butcher shop at the site.
During the commission meeting, members of the Philadelphia community voiced strong objections to the proposal. Local resident Ethan Broadway addressed attendees, asking them to raise their hands if they opposed the plan. He stated, "There are a lot of members of our community that are opposed to this. There has not been successful commercial in this area."
Opposition extended to other commercial activity near the area. Residents also expressed concerns about a new restaurant, 141 Prime, which is seeking a private club permit to sell alcohol. The restaurant's permit is pending a third reading by the Jonesboro City Council.
Sherri Arender, another resident, criticized the introduction of businesses like restaurants in areas close to children. "If somebody wants to put a restaurant in there, there’s tons of restaurants that are in Jonesboro that are vacant and have a liquor license, but not out here in a community where there’s kids right there," Arender argued.
Ultimately, the commission voted 5-1 against recommending the rezoning request. Commissioner Jim Little cast the sole vote in favor of the proposal. The matter is now expected to move to the Jonesboro City Council for a final decision.