Athens City Council debates zoning change for proposed housing development on Hooper Street

Concerns over a proposed zoning change in Athens took center stage at the City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, as residents voiced their apprehensions about the potential impact on their community. The proposed development, which seeks to rezone an area from residential to multifamily housing, has sparked significant debate among local homeowners.

Residents like Aaron, who lives near the intersection of Hooper and Nottingham, highlighted safety issues, particularly regarding traffic and pedestrian safety. He urged council members to observe the area firsthand, noting the dangers posed by speeding vehicles and the lack of sidewalks. “It’s a blind corner, especially with speeders,” he stated, recounting a near-miss incident with his wife. He also raised concerns about litter and environmental impacts from increased development, emphasizing the need for city officials to understand the community's existing challenges.

Diana Marvel, another resident, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the proposed zoning change would disrupt the established residential character of the neighborhood. “We chose to live in that area because it’s a residential area,” she said, stressing that the introduction of a large development would irrevocably alter the community dynamics.

Jennifer Dormerio added to the discussion by pointing out the existing high-density housing in the area, arguing that the infrastructure, particularly the narrow roads, is already strained. “If you build this housing, it’s going to be dangerous,” she warned, highlighting the lack of safe walking paths for residents.

On the other side of the debate, Rob Delich, president of Athens Porch Fest, argued for the necessity of affordable housing, stating that the city must find suitable locations for such developments. He emphasized that the proposed site aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan for increasing housing density. “We need housing and we need all kinds of housing,” he asserted, advocating for the zoning change as a crucial first step in addressing the community's housing needs.

As the council deliberates, the outcome remains uncertain, with residents urging careful consideration of the implications for their neighborhood. The discussions reflect a broader tension between the need for development and the desire to preserve community character, a challenge many cities face today. The council is expected to continue evaluating the proposal, weighing the voices of concerned residents against the pressing need for more housing options in Athens.