By John Howell

Hallmark Ford on Monday revealed plans for a new dealership building in the auto manufacturer’s Trustmark facility design series on its Highway 6 West property.

Auto dealership principals Chad and Mark Heafner and contractor Larry Cole presented preliminary plans to the Batesville Planning Commission at its monthly meeting March 25, seeking approval for the design and a variance for its construction.

The new building will be be built behind the present Hallmark Ford building which will be dismantled after completion of the new facility. The staged construction will allow the dealership and shop to remain in operation during the construction, the dealer spokesmen said.

“Hopefully, it will compliment and be an asset to our community,” Mark Heafner said.

Members of the planning commission voted unanimously to accept the design standards, contingent on approval of a variance to allow use of metal panels for exterior walls.

“Ford does not let us vary,” Mark Heafner said.

Commissioners then unanimously approved the variance due to the requirements of the Ford design.

Commissioners also unanimously approved design standards presented by representatives of the Wishcamper Companies, Inc. for the renovation of the Skyview Apartments on Lester and Vance Streets and on Patton Lane.

“This will be a full gut and rehabilitation down to the studs,” said G. G. Ferguson of Ferguson and Associates, Architects.

“The only thing that won’t be new on the project will be the studs and the slabs,” said another member of the group visiting the planning commission.

The Wishcamper representatives also requested a variance to allow use of exterior vinyl siding instead of HardiePlank siding on the apartments. After questioning about the color, longevity and flame resistance of vinyl siding, commissioners unanimously approved the variance, citing the siding’s superior appearance and durability.

Commissioner Willie King asked about plans for residents who live in the apartments when construction begins. A Wishcamper representative said that the company would provide assistance to current tenants in finding other housing during the renovation.

Commissioners also voted to recommend to city aldermen for approval:
•A conditional use permit for Burns Barbecue to operate a seasonal sno-cone business near its restaurant in the Eagle Crest Shopping Center;
•Conditional use permits for Batesville Main Street — one for the Farmer’s Market on the Square and one for the two-day Springfest with carnival rides;
•A conditional use permit for Chris Smith to open a second seasonal crawfish sales location at 596 Hwy. 51 South;
•A conditional use permit for Robyn Sims to operate a seasonal sno-cone business on Highway 6 East between Dollar General and Neill’s Package Store.