The Athens‑Clarke County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend rezoning 997 South Milledge Avenue from commercial office to mixed density residential (RM‑2), supporting a proposal that will convert an existing historic structure into five one‑bedroom units and add four townhouse units behind it.

Planning staff described the parcel as already surrounded by mixed‑density residential uses and said the proposed residential conversion is consistent with the 2023 comprehensive plan and the Millage Avenue design and historic overlays. The plan presented to commissioners shows retention and reuse of the historic front building and a small infill of townhouses to the rear with 14 parking spaces planned for nine units.

The applicant, Brad Martin, told commissioners he would extend sanitary sewer service to the property line and coordinate with public works on construction. Staff’s recommendation requested a condition requiring sanitary sewer service to be provided to the new structure in a manner approved by Athens‑Clarke County utilities. Commissioners adopted that condition and approved the rezoning unanimously.

Staff noted the project had been reviewed conceptually by the Historic Preservation Commission and that final design and Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) review will be required for changes to the historic structure. Additional technical review will address stormwater, preserved canopy and other plan review requirements before permits are issued.

The commission’s vote forwards the rezoning recommendation and condition to the mayor and commission for final action.