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CARYVILLE, TN (WLAF)- The Caryville Board of Mayor and Aldermen held a public hearing Wednesday night on a zone change of parcel 120 010.00, on Bruce Gap Rd. in Caryville, that is owned by Indian Gap Investment, LLC, from Low Density Residential (R-1) to Medium Density Residential (R-2). There were no citizens present at the meeting to discuss any concerns.
After the public hearing, the board began a special called meeting to vote on a second reading of Ordinance 2026-02 to change the zone of parcel 120 010.00, on Bruce Gap Rd. in Caryville, and owned by Indian Gap Investment, LLC, from Low Density Residential (R-1) to Medium Density Residential (R-2). Indian Gap Investment LLC is looking at developing a gated community on this parcel of land. The change from R1 to R2 changes the number of dwellings from 38 to 52 that can be placed on the land.
Alderman Vickie Heatherly made a motion to approve the second reading of the ordinance with Alderman Eric Jones making the second. At this point, Alderman Lloyd Lawson asked how the rezoning and proposed development would benefit the town. Mayor Beth Lawson stated that the rezoning would give the town more say in what can be done. Lloyd stated that he was under the impression the development intended to take care of the residents’ garbage. Lloyd Lawson continued that he was told by Caryville Jacksboro Utilities that each town resident who had a water meter pays a garbage fee. Town Administrator Craig Bennett responded, “so it will benefit the town financially”. After the brief discussion, the issue was put to a vote with Lloyd Lawson voting “no”, Alderman Josh Monday and Alderman Jordan Cross were absent. The remainder of the board voted “yes” to the change. The item was approved.
After the vote, Mayor Lawson told the board she needed to change the date on some upcoming meetings since the board doesn’t have a vice mayor at this time. On Monday night, Mayor Lawson attempted to appoint Alderman Josh Monday as vice mayor, however the motion died for a lack of a second. Wednesday night Mayor Lawson stated that the board was in violation of the charter by not having a vice mayor. Jones countered the statement by saying the board can appoint a member of the board to preside over meetings when the mayor and vice mayor are absent according to the town’s charter. Lloyd Lawson told the board he would preside over the meetings should that situation arise. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED-03/12/2026-6AM)