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Social Circle council approves two rezonings to allow single‑family houses in historic district
Summary
After public hearings, the Social Circle Mayor and Council unanimously approved two rezonings to change undersized lots from Residential Medium Density (RMD) to R15 so single‑family detached homes can be built; staff noted both lots remain nonconforming but closer to R15 standards and will require historic‑district certificates of appropriateness.
The Social Circle Mayor and Council unanimously approved two rezonings that will allow single‑family detached homes on two undersized lots in the city’s historic district.
Ashley Davis, city staff, told the council the first request (Rezone 2026‑004) would change a parcel from Residential Medium Density (RMD) to R15, which would align the lot’s dimensions more closely with R15 standards. Davis said the lot is currently nonconforming under RMD (RMD lots are expected to be an acre; R15 lots are typically 15,000 square feet) and that utilities — water, sewer and gas — are available. She said the developer would still need to submit a Certificate of Appropriateness application to the Historic Preservation Commission before building permits could be issued. Planning staff and the Planning Commission recommended approval.
The applicant, Brian Stamey, identified himself for the record and described plans to build a ‘‘quality and affordable’’ house and to follow Historic Preservation Commission guidelines during permitting. Theresa moved to approve the rezoning and Adam seconded; Chair called the ayes and the motion passed unanimously.
A second, similar rezoning — also to convert an RMD lot to R15 for single‑family detached construction — received the same staff recommendation and public support. David Wilkins, a neighboring resident, said he lives at 1391 Double Bridges Road (Madison) and spoke in favor, noting proximity of his backyard to the site. Theresa moved to approve the second rezoning; the motion passed unanimously.
Why it matters: The rezonings reduce the degree to which the lots are nonconforming under local zoning and clear the way for single‑family development subject to design review by the Historic Preservation Commission. Council members asked staff technical questions about lot dimensions and conformity; staff answered that the change would bring the lots closer to the dimensional requirements of R15 even though they will remain nonconforming in size.
The council moved on to other agenda items after both rezoning motions passed. The Historic Preservation Commission must review any proposed building elevations or site changes through the city’s Certificate of Appropriateness process before permits are issued.
