Stillwater City Council approves rezoning 1002 South Husband Street to commercial business

In the heart of Stillwater, city council members gathered under the warm glow of the chamber lights to deliberate on a significant zoning amendment that could reshape the neighborhood landscape. The focal point of the evening was a proposal to rezone 1002 South Husband Street from a two-family residential designation to a commercial business zone, a change that has sparked both interest and concern among local residents.

Henry Bibelheimer, the senior planner for the city, presented the case, highlighting the property’s strategic location at the southwest corner of Tenth and Husband, near popular establishments like Empire Slice and StoneCloud. The proposal had previously been reviewed by the planning commission, which recommended approval with a unanimous vote. However, a tie vote at the city council meeting in October left the decision hanging, necessitating a second look.

Corey Williams, the applicant, addressed the council, emphasizing his commitment to the neighborhood and his plans to transform the existing house into a neighborhood restaurant while preserving its 1930s craftsman architecture. He recalled past successes in similar projects, assuring council members that the development would not detract from the community’s character.

Yet, not all voices echoed support. Janet Rogers, a resident living directly south of the proposed site, expressed her apprehension about the encroaching commercial development, fearing it would disrupt her living space. Her concerns reflect a broader tension between the growth of commercial areas and the preservation of existing neighborhoods—a challenge that council members acknowledged as they weighed the implications of their decision.

As discussions unfolded, council members grappled with the complexities of zoning changes. Some expressed support for the proposal, recognizing the potential for positive growth in the area, while others remained cautious, reflecting on the impact such changes could have on current residents. The council ultimately voted in favor of the rezoning, with a unanimous 5-0 decision, signaling a shift towards commercial development in a neighborhood that has long been residential.

The meeting also touched on another agenda item regarding a specific use permit for churches on North Husband Street, which was withdrawn by the applicant, indicating a quieter moment in the evening’s proceedings.

As the council adjourned, the decision on South Husband Street marked a pivotal moment for Stillwater, blending the promise of new business opportunities with the ongoing challenge of maintaining community integrity. The future of the neighborhood now hangs in a delicate balance, as residents and developers alike navigate the evolving landscape of their city.