Planning staff calls public hearing to consider rezoning 1107 Hedgemont Avenue from R‑2 to C‑3

City planning staff notified the Board of Mayor and Aldermen that a public hearing is scheduled to consider rezoning 1107 Hedgemont Avenue from R‑2 to C‑3 and explained the legal steps required to change the zoning map.

Christy Ginger, planning and codes director, said the rezoning notice was advertised and 68 letters were mailed to property owners and tenants in the neighborhood. “The public hearing is called for, and then, the vote, will occur also at that meeting,” Ginger said. She explained that planning commission approval is required before a board vote and that ordinance 2025‑06 will be used to put the change on the books if the board approves it.

Ginger reiterated that rezoning is a planning tool that adjusts permitted uses and setbacks but does not remove building and fire code requirements. “Just because a particular property is zoned a certain thing, that just allows opportunity for use…fire codes must be met,” she said, adding that certificates of occupancy require building and fire inspections regardless of zoning.

Aldermen asked detailed questions about existing uses on Hedgemont Avenue, whether properties were grandfathered, and whether a future owner could change use without returning to the board. Ginger explained that zoning stays with the property once a rezoning is approved and that new uses must still meet applicable codes and permits.

Ginger said the planning department had not received written opposition or support as of the work session but was prepared to present the public hearing record to the board when the hearing is held. The board did not take a final vote at the work session; the item will return for decision after the public hearing and planning commission action.