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Planning commission approves rezoning for vacant church lot on Atlanta Highway after long neighborhood debate
Summary
The commission approved rezoning of a former church property on Atlanta Highway to B-2 (commercial) after testimony about persistent vandalism and homeless encampments made the property unusable. Proponent said commercial zoning would enable redevelopment; neighbors urged cleanup and voiced concerns about possible commercial uses.
The Montgomery Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for a vacant church property on Atlanta Highway after proponents said the site has become a public-safety and blight concern and after extended discussion with neighbors.
Clay Phillips, attorney for the property owner, told the commission the vacant church had been repeatedly vandalized and occupied by homeless people, leaving the building beyond repair. Phillips said rezoning the corner lot to B-2 commercial would attract tenants and remove the nuisance condition. He said he and the owner had met with neighbors and that many preferred active redevelopment to continued abandonment.
Several commissioners and community members acknowledged that commercial zoning could allow a range of uses, including ones neighbors might not prefer. Commissioners noted that zoning designations can be tailored by later conditions and that the city council retains final authority on rezonings. Supporters of rezoning said they would press the council and other city agencies to address trespassing and vandalism rapidly to make the lot marketable.
After public comment and discussion, a motion to approve the ordinance amendment for the property passed. The commission's approval sends the matter on to city council for final action, and proponents said they would continue outreach with neighbors about acceptable uses and site cleanup.
The discussion included repeated appeals for the city to coordinate enforcement against trespassing and vandalism; proponents named Montgomery Police Chief Ray Boyse as a contact already engaged in related enforcement efforts. Commissioners urged proponents to make clear to city council what restrictions, if any, they seek on permitted uses under a B-2 designation.
The owner's attorney and several commissioners said the rezoning was intended to end the cycle of vandalism and attract redevelopment, not to force a particular use immediately. Neighbors asked the commission and staff to emphasize cleanup and to seek control of the site before new tenants move in.
