James Heath will soon be a Tyrone resident.

The Tyrone Town Council voted 4-1 Thursday night to approve Heath’s request to be annexed into the town. Councilman Gloria Furr opposed the move because she was not sure if Heath would provide environmental protection on Trickum Creek.

Heath owns 16 acres on Trickum Creek Road and wants to build a home on the property. He said he wanted to be annexed into the town, because he believes he can get better government services.

“I think the Tyrone Police Department can get here quicker than the Sheriff’s Office,” he said.

When the annexation request was sent to Fayette County, the County Commission opposed the request over concerns about density and watershed protection around Trickum Creek.

But during discussions with the Planning Commission, Heath agreed that only one home would be built on the property and also agreed to a 150-ft. buffer around Trickum Creek.

Furr wondered what would happen if Heath sold the property and another buyer wanted to build more homes on the site.

“Just like everybody else, they would have to go back before the Planning Commission and get the Council’s approval,” said town manager Barry Amos.

Heath thanked the council for its vote.

“Welcome to Tyrone,’ said Councilman Mike Smola.

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