Athens Contemplates Rezoning for Increased Business Area

The Athens City Council is currently considering two rezoning requests that would expand business space closer to residential areas near two major streets. One of the proposals would allow the Hyundai dealership on East State Street to use five vacant lots behind it for parking the cars it sells. However, residents expressed concerns about increased lighting and requested a barrier between the lots and their homes during a public hearing before the City Council.

Council Member Alan Swank mentioned that a parking lot covering a maximum of 60% of the lot could be used, while the remaining 40% could act as a natural barrier between the property and the houses. Attorney David Mott emphasized the importance of having green space on the north side of the lot. In a separate proposal, multiple lots on Elliot Street are being considered for rezoning from residential multi-family to neighborhood business residential, which would enable properties to serve as both homes and businesses.

The developer requesting the zoning change was absent from the hearing, prompting Council Member Michael Wood to request more information about the developer’s plans for the properties. Wood proposed tabling the proposal until these plans are provided, citing the need for common respect in the decision-making process. The Council agreed to reach out to the developer and request the plans before deciding whether to delay the matter. Both proposals are set to be discussed again on June 17.