Council hears first reading for Shamrock Boulevard rezoning to allow assisted‑living ‘Silver Birch’

Council held the first reading of an ordinance Jan. 20 to rezone a 5‑acre portion of two parcels on Shamrock Boulevard from B‑2 (general business) to B‑1 (business/residential) to accommodate an age‑restricted assisted‑living facility proposed by the developer as "Silver Birch." Director of Planning Sarah Sitterle presented maps, a preliminary site plan and architectural renderings and said the Planning Commission has an official legal description and plat under review.

Sitterle said the rezoned parcel is located south of the railroad tracks and west of Route 44 and noted the city's current comprehensive plan does not address the site; the draft comprehensive plan lists the area as a growth area and the remainder of the property would remain B‑2 as a business park. "This would be part of the overall business park which would be a combination of light industrial and commercial uses," Sitterle said.

Developer George Davis said the assisted‑living facility would complete a local housing lifecycle following prior single‑family and senior apartment projects and that operators for the assisted‑living portion will attend a future meeting. He asked Council to reserve the bulk of discussion for the public hearing and third reading.

A public hearing on the rezoning is scheduled for Feb. 17, 2026; the ordinance and the related conditional‑use permit will return to Council after Planning Commission review and public comment. The item advanced from the meeting as a first reading and will go to a subsequent reading and public hearing.