The Powhatan Planning Commission voted 3-2 in favor of a proposed inn and conference center to be located off route 711 during the commission’s Jan. 8 meeting.

Commissioners Richard Ayers, Bill Melton and Owen R. Walker voted for the proposal while commissioners Karin Carmack and David Williams voted against it.

The proposal made by Tim and Lisa Benusa to convert the historic Malvern property into a reception facility was met with concern by some on the Planning Commission as well as some county residents, because the location of the property is not currently zoned for commercial use.

The Commission heard from Planning Director Brandon Stidham, who noted that, while the current comprehensive plan does not allow for the project in the area near the 288 and Huguenot Trail interchange, the project may be supported by the business, economic and historical resource development goals of the current plan.

The Commission heard numerous declarations of support for the project during the public comment period, including a recommendation from Powhatan resident Ernie Barham.

“I’m just an ordinary citizen but I can see from past things that the Benusas have done (including The Mill at Fine Creek) that they will succeed if we give them the chance,” said Barham. “The only yoke holding these people back is the comprehensive plan.”

George Cook also spoke out in favor of the project, asking the Commission to realize that “growth is coming whether we like it or not,” and to consider the economic benefit of the project to the county.

“I just don’t want to see us stay behind because our comp plan is behind,” said Cook.

Roger Richardson was one of the few speakers that did not agree with the project, saying that he had spoken to many people who did not own land in the area who were against it.

After a discussion concerning the water supply that the Malvern facility would be able to use, among other concerns, Commissioner Richard Ayers made the motion to approve the recommendation.

“If there is anything that is going to change on this property, I think this is the way to do it,” he said.