Council denies rezoning request for 6795 Selma Highway after conservation concerns

The Montgomery City Council voted to deny a rezoning request for 6795 Selma Highway after officials and neighbors warned the proposed change could bring industrial activity next to conservation land.

Property owner Charles Matthews told the council the prospective buyer plans to build office space with a parts-building and limited trailer parking on the 6.8-acre site. Council members and staff said the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DNCR) sent a letter expressing concern about noise, lighting, drainage and tractor-trailer parking that would disturb wildlife and hunters.

City planning staff told the council they had checked the zoning map and records and found that the parcel immediately east of the site remains zoned agricultural despite appraisal listings that suggested commercial use. Council members said the area along Highway 80 has historic and recreational value, and one councilmember argued industrial development would be inconsistent with efforts to preserve that corridor.

Councilmember Romick moved to deny the rezoning. After a roll-call-style raised-hand vote and an abstention noted by one member, the council recorded the motion as carried and the rezoning request was denied.

The council noted the planning commission had recommended approval but emphasized the department of conservation's concerns and neighborhood character. The council did not tie the denial to a specific alternative use; staff said the applicant could pursue other legally available options consistent with existing zoning.

The council returned the item to the minutes as denied and moved on to the next business item.