Development News for Fairhope, Alabama

Thomas Hospital Rezoning to B2 Recommended to Align with Adjacent Hospital Campus

The commission considered a rezoning request (ZC 26.05) for two properties from R4 (low-density multi-family residential) to B2 (general business district) to align with the larger Thomas Hospital site, which is zoned B2. Staff noted an advertising error, clarifying the request is for B2, not B4, and that the medical overlay district already subjects the properties to B4 standards, mitigating concerns. The rezoning aims to consolidate the two R4 parcels into the existing B2 hospital site via an administrative replat, avoiding a split-zoned lot. The properties are adjacent to the hospital to the north and residential areas to the south and west. Concerns from residents regarding potential impacts were addressed, clarifying that only the subject properties' zoning would change. Staff recommended approval, contingent on proper landscaping and buffer requirements for a proposed generator. A resident expressed concern about the proximity of commercial development to her home and requested her own property be rezoned to R4 for affordability, which staff advised would require a separate application. Another resident questioned the legality of using an R4 lot as a construction trailer site. The commission recommended approval to the City Council for the B2 rezoning [cite: 1944-2301].

Small Cell Utility Applications Advance with Conditions; Some Tabled for Further Collocation Review

The commission reviewed six small cell utility applications (UR 26.05 through UR 26.11) from Verizon Wireless. Staff recommended approval for all, with specific conditions. Concerns were raised about the necessity of new poles, potential visual clutter, the height of antennas (up to 37.5 ft, nearly 42 ft at the marina), collocation options (on buildings or existing poles), and the lack of progress on previously approved sites. Verizon representatives explained the need for improved coverage and capacity, especially during peak times and events, and confirmed that most proposals involve new poles, though two (UR 26.06 and UR 26.11) would replace existing light poles, and three others (UR 26.05, UR 26.07, UR 26.08) are new poles. Two applications (UR 26.05 and UR 26.07) were tabled for further review and discussion on collocation and alternative locations, including potential use of buildings or alleys. The remaining four applications (UR 26.06, UR 26.08, UR 26.10, UR 26.11) were recommended for approval to City Council, with UR 26.11 (marina location) having an added condition regarding flood zone regulations. One application (UR 26.06) received one nay vote [cite: 2302-3183].

Extension Denied for 'The Proper Townhomes' Project Amidst Zoning Uncertainty

The commission considered a request for an extension for "The Proper Townhomes" (SD 2405), a 10-unit multiple occupancy project initially approved in July 2024. The applicant sought a two-year extension to secure final plat approval, citing delays in completing improvements, with no permits submitted to date. Staff noted that the project, as proposed, would currently be subject to a suspension of certain applications and could become non-compliant with pending zoning amendments. The applicant explained the delays were due to financing issues and the need for economies of scale, with a contractor now selected and a land disturbance permit close to submission. Commissioners expressed concern about the lack of progress over two years, as extensions typically involve projects under construction. Ultimately, the commission denied the extension request in a 7-2 vote, citing the lack of precedent for granting extensions without any work initiated and the potential for future non-compliance with zoning changes. The denial means the project's preliminary MOP will expire [cite: 23-314].

Morphe Corners Minor Subdivision Approved Subject to Rezoning and Final Plat Conditions

The commission approved the preliminary and final plat for Morphe Corners (SD 2613), a four-lot minor subdivision on a property soon to be zoned R1, located at the northeast corner of Bishop Road and Morphe Avenue. The property is currently zoned R4 and is pending rezoning to R1. The subdivision creates two lots fronting Bishop Road and two fronting Morphe Avenue, with three points of access. All proposed lots meet size dimensions, and the plat includes easements for access and utilities. Sidewalks will be provided as required, and a drainage letter indicates runoff will continue to the ridgeway ditch. Staff recommended approval with conditions, including approval of the related rezoning case (ZC 26.04) by City Council, adding finished floor elevations to the plat, installation of sidewalks, and recording the final plat within 120 days. The commission approved the plat subject to these staff recommendations [cite: 1773-1877].