Homewood residents could soon be getting some new neighbors.

The Homewood Zoning and Planning Commission approved a plan on Tuesday that will divide eight lots on Mecca Avenue into seven smaller lots. Bob Easley of EE Edgewood Land Holding LLC plans to build new homes on the lots.

Easley’s previous proposal, which divided the parcel into eight lots, was denied by the Planning and Zoning Commission because it did not meet zoning ordinances. The city requires that lots be at least 53 feet wide. The eight lots proposed were only 50 feet wide.

Easley’s new proposal divides the parcel into larger seven lots, the smallest of which is now 55 feet wide. The city also requires that the homes take up no more than 50% of the lot and must be a specific distance from each edge of the lot. The homes must also be less than 35 feet tall.

The city approved the new proposal, despite local resident’s protests. Several people spoke out about concerns for increases in traffic and environmental concerns. They were particularly concerned about runoff issues in the hilly area.

The city is working to prevent this issues from happening, however. Greg Cobb of the Building, Engineering and Zoning Department has stated that he is working with the developers to solve the drainage issues. No mention has been made about the concerns for parking or the amount of trees that might be cut down, though.

The development of new homes in the area could mean more growth for the city. New residents means more money going into the local economy as well as more tax revenue. But, to many locals, it could be more of a hassle than it’s worth.

What do you think about the development of a new subdivision in Homewood? Let us know!