Commission recommends rezoning of 195 Johnson Lane to R-6 for single-family duplex; drainage, historic review noted

The Greater Lowndes Planning Commission on March 30 recommended approval of a rezoning for 195 Johnson Lane, a 0.32-acre parcel that the applicant said he intends to use for a single-story duplex for personal and family use.

Planner Amy Martin said the property is located on the north side of Johnson Lane and is vacant; the property sits in the Neighborhood Activity Center character area and within a local Historic Preservation District, so final occupancy will require Historic Preservation Commission review in addition to the rezoning. Staff found the requested change from Community Commercial (C-C) to Single-Family Residential (R-6) consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and the standards for zoning power.

Applicant Alpha Britton confirmed the duplex would be used by him and his family. Neighbor and nearby pastor Annie Bethany and resident Georgia Baldwin raised concerns about drainage and past flooding in the area; the transcript records county staff and engineering direction that development must not create negative drainage impacts and that engineering review will address drainage. Architect Jimmy Cone stated he did not foresee flooding being an issue. The commission voted to recommend approval (motion by Calvin Graham, second by Chris Webb) by a recorded 10-0 vote. The recommendation is advisory; the file notes that Historic Preservation Commission review and standard engineering and permitting processes remain.