Decatur’s Planning Commission will not recommend developer Jay Weaver’s proposal to subdivide property, now part of an Oakhurst dog park, and build two homes. Weaver, the commission said, didn’t meet two of four conditions required, namely his project adversely affects both the “greater public good” and the environment by cutting into the dog park and increasing water runoff.
Before a standing-room crowd of nearly 100 people at City Hall Monday, Commission Chair Tony Powers did point out the unanimous decision could be overturned later this month by city commissioners.
Weaver wants to purchase .6 of an acre, or about one-third of the dog park, from the Samuel L. Jones Boys & Girls Club. After Monday’s decision he said he still believes he can build the two homes because the land has been zoned residential since 1940. But Weaver also told planning commissioners he’s willing to buy the property and sell it to the city at what he believes is below market value, though with enough profit to cover his own expenses.
Assistant City Manager Lyn Menne reiterated Monday the city is interested in purchasing the entire five acres owned by the Jones Club, and is therefore not interested in Weaver’s offer at this time.
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