Commission approves Miller Street duplex to house pediatric cancer families despite staff concern over lot size

The Augusta Planning Commission voted to approve Z-25-39, a rezoning request to change 1012 Miller Street from R-1C (single-family) to R-2 (two-family) so a nonprofit-run duplex can provide lodging for families of pediatric cancer patients. Petitioner Alanda Grover described her son Miller''s cancer journey and said the planned residence would be provided to families at no charge: "They will not pay for anything," she told the commission.

Staff recommended denial, noting the zoning code requires a minimum of 2,500 square feet per dwelling unit under R-2 (total 5,000 sq ft) and a minimum lot width of 50 feet; the subject property is approximately 0.11 acres (about 4,792 sq ft) and about 40 feet wide, so it falls short of both the square-foot and width requirements. Staff also noted required sidewalk repairs and other site-plan conditions should the board approve. Commissioners asked staff and utilities representatives about whether water service would need separate taps; staff said developers can elect shared or separate meters and must follow Augusta Utilities requirements.

Despite the staff recommendation to deny because of dimensional noncompliance, a commissioner moved to approve Z-25-39 with staff conditions. The motion was seconded and passed. The commission approved the rezoning and will forward the petition to the full Augusta Commission on Nov. 18, 2025. Staff emphasized that site-plan approval, ADA and utilities compliance, sidewalk repair and any required engineering or permitting remain prerequisites to construction and occupancy.