Council holds first reading on Hooper Street rezoning for 5.13‑acre multifamily proposal; neighbor opposes

Athens City Council conducted a first reading May 19 of Ordinance 56‑25, a rezoning request to change approximately 5.13 acres at 111 Hooper Street from R‑1 and R‑2 residential zoning to R‑3 (multifamily residential). The planning commission recommended the rezoning on April 2, 2025, and the ordinance states the change is intended to allow development of affordable multifamily housing consistent with the Athens 2040 comprehensive plan.

Council Member Swank summarized the parcel’s location (north of the Richland Avenue light near the former Peddler and Packer and opposite the Monticello Village apartments) and noted Hilltide Partners has applied to develop multifamily housing on the site. The ordinance provides that council will hold a public hearing on June 2, 2025, consistent with the planning commission’s recommendation.

During the first‑reading session, Council Member Thomas clarified that conditional rezoning is not available under the applicable code, based on information from Director Elias and staff (as read into the record): “Open does not allow for conditional rezoning,” the transcript records, and the ordinance will proceed as a straight rezoning if approved.

A nearby homeowner, Diana Marvel of 8 Nottingham Drive, spoke in opposition. Marvel said she had recently purchased her home and was unaware of the proposed project until the meeting: “This development would irrevocably change our lives and our homes and our neighborhood,” she told council, asking members to fully consider the impact on current residents.

Council did not vote on the rezoning at the May 19 meeting; the public hearing is scheduled for June 2, at which additional testimony and testimony from the applicant or its representative may be offered before council considers second and third readings.