On September 8, the Plainview Metropolitan Planning Commission discussed Ordinance 171, which addresses the inclusion of M-1, a light industrial zone, and amends Section 1 of Article VII, Provisions Governing Use Districts. The zone requires a minimum of five contiguous acres and defines permitted uses. Commissioners then recommended passage of the ordinance by the Plainview Board of Aldermen.

Stewart Skeen, zoning official, reported that he issued one permit for $587 for a single-family dwelling of 1,920 square feet. He answered several questions regarding zoning, subdividing property and the cost of building permits. He also noted that three property subdivisions were still pending because some signatures were needed.

Planner Jordan Rockwell encouraged commissioners to attend the training in White Pine on November 19, 2026. More information about the topics covered in the training will be available in October.

Just before the meeting adjourned, Shirley Keaton, who has served on the Plainview Planning Commission since 2019, was recognized not only for her more recent service but also for helping with the establishment of Plainview and stepping up to serve in various capacities since 1992. She commented that although she has enjoyed her time on the commission, she is looking forward to spending more time with her family, especially her new great-grandbabies.

Keaton is also an accomplished regional artist whose paintings have been exhibited and honored in the greater Knoxville area, as well as at the Union County Heritage Festival.

The next Plainview Planning Commission meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 13.