Community development makes rezoning request for park expansion plans

PERRY – Perry City Council discussed five city-owned properties to be rezoned to government use at a recent council meeting. This is the first reading; therefore, no action was taken.

During the council meeting, Community Planner Emily Carson explained the request, stating that they were reviewing signage requirements for the new Creekwood Park entrance. They then realized that the proposed sign exceeded the allowed limits under the current Neighborhood Mixed Use zoning designation. However, it would meet the requirements of the Governmental Use zoning designation. 

Carson said they decided to rezone other city-owned parcels or properties used for municipal purposes. These properties include: 

• City Hall, 808 Carroll Street
• 1502 Houston Lake Road
• 1504 Houston Lake Road
• 1506 Houston Lake Road
• 531 General Courtney Hodges Boulevard

Carson also explained that the Creekwood Park entrance is an extension of the park. The parcels on Houston Lake Road are currently vacant, but a plan is in place to extend A.D. Redmond Park. 

She shared with Mayor Randall Walker and the council that there was feedback from residents on Oldfield Lane and Hilltop Road. 

A resident, Peggy Davis, expressed her concerns, saying she was unaware of the proposed zoning. She shared that it is challenging to leave the neighborhood, and depending on what is put on the property, it could make it harder for residents. She believes it could lead to a bigger problem, and hopes mayor and council will reconsider it. 

The Planning Commission recommends approving the request. Council will decide at a future meeting. 

The Mayor and Council will hold their pre-council meeting at 5 p.m. and the regular council meeting at 6 p.m. on November 18. Everyone is invited to attend these meetings, and the agenda can be found here. Both meetings are also livestreamed, and the full video is available here.