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Sussex P&Z says flea market should move

Officials agree Route 24 is a dangerous location for venue
May 7, 2019

The operator of a long-standing flea market along Route 24 in Long Neck may have a tough sell during an upcoming Sussex County Council public hearing.

Sussex County Planning and Zoning did not look favorably on the conditional-use application for an outdoor sales market near the Long Neck Road intersection.

At its April 25 meeting, the commission unanimously recommended denial of the application filed by Karen Ann Mueller for open outdoor sales on her property at 31977 Eagle Lane. Mueller said sales usually occur two weekends a month. Items are stored in trailers at the site.

Council's hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 14, in the county administration building, 2 The Circle, Georgetown.

Making the motion for denial, Commissioner Bruce Mears said while the applicant should be commended for making the business successful, the location is inappropriate, and the flea market should be located in an area with commercial zoning.

Commissioners agreed that parking was an issue even though the applicant said work has already started to expand parking on the parcel to alleviate parking on Route 24.

Mears said the flea market has been operating for some time without county approval. He said testimony shows people going to the market park on the shoulders of both sides of Route 24, creating a dangerous situation for cyclists, pedestrians and other motorists. “The danger would increase if this use is permitted and expanded on the site,” Mears said.

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