The Planning Commission granted a special exception on Nov. 25 allowing Family Worship Center Ministries to use a former residence at 1160 County Line Road for weekly church services and a Bible study, subject to conditions recommended by planning staff.

Michael Bew, who said he resides at the same address, told the commission the church is small and regular services would help revive the congregation after COVID: "We're a very small church... on a good day, we have 11," he said.

Staff recommended approval with conditions including a fire‑safety inspection for conversion from residential to institutional use; assurance that no wetlands to the west are disturbed by added impervious surfaces; and that any expansion or modification meet additional parking requirements. Staff calculated 11 parking spaces would be required given the gross floor area and noted existing driveway and garage capacity could meet demand.

The commission voted unanimously to approve the special exception with the staff’s conditions. Mr. Allen said the item will go to the Board of Commissioners on Dec. 15 for final action as part of the county’s zoning review process.