During a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed modification to zoning conditions for a 4.49-acre property located at the intersection of Highway 81 and North Paula Road. The modification aims to facilitate commercial development on the site, which is currently zoned for mixed use, a designation established by the Henry County Board of Commissioners in 2019.

The property is situated within the Highway Corridor overlay district, which imposes specific development standards. The original zoning conditions required adherence to a site plan that included residential parcels, but the current proposal seeks to amend these conditions to allow for a more commercially focused development. The new site plan includes a plaza and retail components, aligning with the commercial character of the surrounding area.

David Harris, an attorney representing the property owner, emphasized the impracticality of maintaining residential lots adjacent to a future four-lane highway, given the existing commercial developments on both sides of the property. He argued that transitioning the site to commercial use would be a logical extension of the ongoing commercial growth along Highway 81, which includes nearby establishments such as a Publix grocery store.

The meeting included a public hearing segment, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the proposal. No opposition was noted during this portion of the meeting, and the staff recommended approval of the modification, contingent upon compliance with the new site plan.

The discussion concluded with Commissioner Anglin, representing the district, taking the lead on further deliberations regarding the proposal.