New Church Among Consent Items at County Planning Commission Meeting

In a meeting that lasted less than 10 minutes and included one public hearing on a short-term tourist rental, the County Planning Commission on March 11 authorized the advertisement of a consent agenda that included a conditional use permit application for a new place of worship in Warren County. Located at 0 Russ Johnson Road in the Fork Magisterial District, this agriculturally zoned property, currently owned by Southfork Riverside Campground LLC, may become the site of a 4,800-square-foot church with a capacity of 80 people, with services held primarily on Sundays and occasional weekday evening meetings. The application suggests that it is a Pentecostal church.

The County Planning Commission meets on March 11. Royal Examiner Photo Credits: Brenden McHugh

“Our congregation is a local faith-based group that has outgrown our current meeting space,” the statement of justification reads, “and we are seeking a permanent home to continue our mission of worship, fellowship, and community service. The proposed property offers a peaceful, rural setting that reflects our desire to create a calm and welcoming environment for worship. The open land and natural surroundings provide an ideal place for reflection, spiritual growth, and community gathering, while maintaining the character of the area.”

The statement goes on to indicate that the use would be low-intensity, with activity focused on scheduled service times. The impact on traffic, noise, and the environment is expected to be minimal. Adequate parking will be provided on site, and existing natural buffering will maintain privacy and visual separation from neighboring properties, although the applicant is willing to install additional such buffering if the County recommends it. The applicant concludes by emphasizing the community’s benefit. This new place of worship will facilitate positive community engagement and provide a safe gathering place for residents.

This item will be voted upon at the April 8 meeting of the County Planning Commission. As for March 11, commission matters were brief, Planner Kelly Wahl reporting that a new zoning officer will assume that role later this month. Everyone wishing each other a happy St. Patrick’s Day, the meeting was adjourned.

Watch the Warren County Planning Commission Meeting of March 11, 2026.