Columbus council approves first reading to rezone corner of Middle and Rocky Ford for assisted‑living project

The Columbus Common Council on Sept. 2 voted 8-0 on first reading to rezoning the property at the southeast corner of Middle Road and Rocky Ford Road from CN (neighborhood commercial) to RM (multifamily residential), clearing the way for a proposed 87‑unit assisted‑living and memory‑care facility by Dover Development to proceed to a second reading.

Jeff Bergman of the planning department described the site and the planning analysis. He said the property has been designated neighborhood commercial since the 1970s but staff and the department's prior studies had identified it as a promising infill site that could suit either multifamily residential or neighborhood commercial uses. Bergman told the council the comprehensive‑plan goals point in both directions: encouraging a diverse housing supply and also supporting neighborhood‑serving commercial locations. He noted the planning commission recommended approval, with an 8‑2 vote, while the planning staff's formal…