Terry Stephens, owner Big Dogs on the River, a kayaking
company in Athens, Ga., has requested a zoning change from the Athens-Clarke
County Commission for a piece of property on Vaughn Road where he would like a put-in
place for kayaks on the Middle Oconee River.
The Commission was briefed about the request during last
Thursday’s agenda-setting meeting. The
property at 614 Vaugn Road is currently in a Single-Family Residential zone and
Stephens is requesting the property be changed to a Special Use in
Single-Family Residential zone.
On March 5, the Mayor and Commission approved the rezoning
of 265 Epps Bridge Lane for commercial use by Big Dogs. In conjunction with the property on Vaughn
Road the company would have a put-in and pick-up location for kayakers.
There were some concerns from nearby residents on Vaughn
Road who were worried about the business taking away from their privacy. The
Athens-Clarke County Planning Commission recommended the zoning request be
approved under conditions of the creation of a screening buffer along both
sides of the property and that a company employee accompany kayakers while on
property.
A public hearing will
be held by the Commission on Tuesday, April 2 in City Hall for any people who want
input on the situation.