Rezoning from commercial to open space proposed

The Town of Tyrone has initiated a rezoning to protect a strip of Shamrock Park along Senoia Road so it can’t be developed in the future.

The 7.37-acre parcel is zoned for general commercial use even though it is currently owned by the town. The site has deed restrictions that call for it to be turned back over to Fayette County — which gave it to the town years ago — if it is no longer used for recreation.

The Town Planning Commission voted unanimously Thursday night to recommend approval of the rezoning to the Town Council, which will have the final say on the matter.

Town Manager Barry Amos told the commission that the open space rezoning means the land will be left a natural area and not developed. The parcel extends from the pavilion and ball fields all the way to Senoia Road.

Amos noted the rezoning is being requested by the mayor and council.

If, for whatever reason the county resumes control of the property, the county cannot be required to follow the city’s zoning regulations, noted Town Attorney Brad Sears. If the county somehow sold the property, however, the new property owner would have to comply with city zoning standards, Sears added.

Judy Jefferson of the Tyrone Neighborhood Alliance said the groups wants to have the park turned back over to the county so it can be preserved and restored.

Having several downtown buildings around the open space would help “preserve the small-town feel,” Jefferson said.

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