He received approval from the Levy County Commission on July 2 to build a 7,600 square foot bar and package store behind Frog’s.

Commissioners approved a special exception permit and a change of zoning from forestry rural residential to moderate intensive commercial (C-3) to allow the bar and package store.

Hayen didn’t announce the name of the new business at the commission meeting. The hours of the bar and package store will be 10 a.m. to 12 midnight seven days a week.

There was no opposition to the project at the county commission meeting.

The five-acre piece of property is located about a mile south of Williston off U.S. 27. The property is part of the Municipal Service Area of Williston, a narrow band of property in the unincorporated area of the county that is under county commission jurisdiction, but is close enough to Williston to require city input.

MSD’s are designated on the Levy County Comprehensive plan as being used for commercial and residential projects of higher density and intensity. City of Williston officials signed off on the project.

Commission Chairman John Meeks said Frog’s BBQ has been around for generations.

“It’s been operating for as long as anyone can remember,” he said.

Hayen plans to use a forested area behind Frog’s as a natural barrier between the bar and package store and neighboring properties. He also plans to build a private security fence to discourage customers from wandering off the property.

“We plan on policing ourselves and training the public right off the bat,” Hayen said.

The project won unanimous approval of the board.

Photo by Terry Witt: Frog’s owner Robert Hayen answers questions at July 2 county commission meeting.

Board of County Commission Regular Meeting July 2, 2018
Posted July 8, 2018