Athens-Clarke Commissioners approve concrete plant rezoning, advance key funding, and planning measures

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission held its April 7th regular session, during which it approved a range of funding, zoning, and policy measures. Key actions included the approval of a controversial request to rezone 330 Old Hull Road from conditional industrial to full industrial use, along with a special use permit for a concrete batch plant. This rezoning had previously received a recommendation for approval with conditions from the planning commission. Through its consent agenda, the commission collectively approved nine items. These included the acceptance of a grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation for the Morton Building, the renewal of a Victims of Crime Act grant, and the formal adoption of the Vision Zero Safety Action Plan. Additionally, the commission addressed several significant 'old business' items. These discussions covered updates to the 2045 Future Land Use Map and consideration of a proposed ordinance designed to regulate data centers. Other items on the agenda included a budget amendment aimed at increasing funding for road paving, funding recommendations for housing counseling and community partnerships, and a contract related to the Arena District development project.