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Council introduces rezoning ordinance for 11699 US Highway 31; public hearing set for June 15
Summary
The council introduced Ordinance 7-38-2026 to reclassify 11699 US Highway 31 from R-1 to M-1 (applicant requested M-1), while the Planning Commission recommended B-4; a public hearing at city council is scheduled for June 15 after a public commenter urged rezoning to align with surrounding commercial uses.
The Spanish Fort City Council on May 18 introduced Ordinance 7-38-2026, a first reading that would change the zoning of 11699 US Highway 31 from R-1 (single-family residential) to M-1 (light industrial). Council members and staff noted the Planning Commission forwarded a recommendation to rezone the property to B-4 (major business) rather than the M-1 requested by the applicant.
During the public participation period, David Cahaley, who said he is representing the property owners, told the council the lot was annexed by legislative action and defaulted to R-1. He urged the council to align the site’s zoning with neighboring commercial and industrial uses, saying: "It abuts on one side the waste management company next door… there are diesel mechanic shops next to it… it absolutely does not fit the mix of being anything residential." Cahaley asked that the council consider rezoning the property to avoid future rental and leasing complications.
Nut graf: The matter was introduced as a first reading and scheduled for a city-level public hearing on June 15 so residents can offer input; the Planning Commission’s recommendation to B-4 contrasts with the applicant’s request for M-1, and council discussion focused on transitional land uses along Highway 31.
Staff presentation and council discussion: Mr. Connor explained the property was annexed under a local legislative act and therefore received R-1 zoning by default; the Planning Commission reviewed the application at its May 11 meeting and recommended a B-4 classification. Councilmembers discussed the corridor’s existing mix of light industrial, business and residential uses and noted the area’s transition zone, with some members suggesting careful study before final action.
What’s next: The council may hold the public hearing at its June 15 meeting, after which it will consider final action. Staff indicated they will provide supporting exhibits, including legal descriptions and maps showing surrounding zoning and lot relationships.
Ending: The ordinance remains at first reading; council members invited the public to attend the June 15 hearing to comment before any final vote is taken.
