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Ulrich Maeyer said that as long as commercial development is restricted to small enterprises like that proposed by the Compagnes, “well be in good shape,” adding that the lodge “might create a job or two or three” for local people.
Fanning Baumgardner, who raises Christmas trees on property adjoining the other side of the Compagnes’ 87 acres, said the lodge would be compatible with his operation. “I think we can work together. We’re both trying to maintain a nice looking area.”
“I wholeheartedly support it,” said neighbor Leon Hutchinson. “It’s going to generate additional tax revenue for this county, which we need badly. It’s going to generate additional jobs. I haven’t heard anybody oppose it.”
“We welcome the additional competition,” said Mr. Irwin, speaking on behalf of the Rappahannock Bed and Breakfast Guild.
Attorney Douglas Baumgardner took exception to the characterization of the lodge as a commercial enterprise, calling it instead “a use designated by the ordinance as yet another agricultural use” since the county’s zoning laws allow lodges with a special exception permit only in agricultural and conservation zones and not at all in commercial zones.
With a public facility across the street and a Christmas tree farm and fruit stand nearby which combine agriculture with retail business, the lodge fits the character of the neighborhood, Mr. Baumgardner continued. Since the Compagnes will use the existing structure and add no new buildings, “in terms of appearance, you’ll hardly be able to discern a difference from what’s there now,” he said.
Commissioner Krebser voiced concern over the possibility of the Compagnes coming back at a future date and seeking a rezoning to expand further, possibly enlarging the lodge into a motel.
His clients are “trying to create a unique property,” Mr. Baumgardner countered. That uniqueness would be lost if a motel is added, he said. “I believe it would be self-destructive.” The only expansion plans involve the addition of a winery at some later time, he told the commissioners.
With their extensive plantings of vineyards and vegetables, the Compagnes “are working in conjunction with the agricultural industry,” Mr. Baumgardner said. “It can only be beneficial to the local economy.”
With the condition that the lodge operation be conducted in existing structures, the commissioners voted unanimously to recommend issuance of the special exception permit.
After three additional public hearings last Wednesday, the commissioners also voted unanimous approval for:
• A special use permit to George Chamberlin of Amissville for a moI
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