On February 21, 2019, the Petitioner officially withdrew the application for rezoning.

On January 21, 2016, the Mayor & Aldermen created the upper-story residential use, which is defined as "One or more residential dwelling units above a ground floor nonresidential use" (15-005698-ZA).  Currently, the upper-story residential use is only permitted in the B-C and B-G Zoning Districts (Sec. 8-305(b) Business & Industrial) within the Savannah Historic District. The upper-story residential use is not currently permitted in the Conservation & Residential Zoning Districts (Sec. 8-3025(a)), which includes the RIP-C Zoning District.

This petition is related to the 1.18 acre vacant lot at 415 East Oglethorpe Avenue, between Habersham and Price streets, which is currently used as parking for the Savannah Police Headquarters.  On June 5, 2018, the Planning Commission voted to recommend denial of the proposed rezoning of 415 East Oglethorpe Avenue and instead approve an alternative, which would amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow the upper-story residential use in the RIP-C Zoning District (File No.18-003306-ZA). 

The purpose of mixed-use zoning, which is prevalent throughout the Savannah Historic District, is to allow for the development of properties that combine residential and commercial opportunities.  Currently, staff has identified three (3) other  areas citywide that are currently zoned RIP-C.  They include property surrounding the Desoto Hotel; property near Habersham & Gaston; and Broad & Broughton. 

This item has been continued during multiple City Council meetings (July 5, 2018; October 11, 2018; October 25, 2018 and the January 3, 2019).  This ordinance change will allow the developer the flexibility to achieve the City's original vision for the property, which is detailed in the September 26, 2016 request for proposal.

Withdrawn