Thomasville council approves rezoning for West Guilford Street development over neighbor objections

The Thomasville City Council on Dec. 15 approved rezoning request Z25-0012 that will allow a developer to convert a 4.74-acre split-zoned parcel on West Guilford Street to consistent R-6 residential zoning, potentially increasing allowable single-family lots from about 12 to approximately 16.

Planning & Zoning Administrator Chuck George told the council the change would make the property uniformly R-6 and is consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan. Greg Heis, representing the applicants, said the developers planned ‘‘starter homes ranging between 1,200–1,300 square feet, priced at $250,000 or under.’’

Two nearby residents spoke against the proposal during the public hearing, raising traffic and access concerns. Catherine Jeffers, who identified her address as 220 West Gifford Street, said she worried about increased traffic near her home. John Ellington of 200 Oakwood also questioned traffic impacts and asked whether multiple entrances or exits could be added to the development.

Mayor Pro Tem Doug Hunt moved to approve the rezoning based on the Planning Board’s findings of fact; Council Member Hunter Thrift seconded. The council approved the rezoning 6-1, with Council Member JacQuez Johnson voting no after requesting a roll-call vote.

The decision changes the parcel’s zoning from a split of R-10 and R-6 to uniform R-6, which city staff said would prohibit commercial uses on the site and allow a slightly higher density of single-family homes. Planning staff indicated they would explore the possibility of additional access points at the residents’ request.

The council’s action completes the local approval step; any required plats, site plans or permits will be handled through the city’s planning and permitting process.