In a recent public hearing, the Wendell Town Board approved a rezoning request for a 0.34-acre property located at 212 Wendell Falls Parkway from residential to downtown mixed-use (DMX). The applicant, Brandon McLean of Associated Equity Group, expressed intentions to convert the existing residential structure into a commercial space for his wife’s aesthetics business, Bright Sky Aesthetics. The property has undergone renovations, including the installation of features compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The rezoning aligns with the town's Blueprint 2030 plan, which encourages the redevelopment of the downtown core with mixed-use buildings that combine commercial and residential spaces. The area surrounding the property has seen recent changes, including a neighboring real estate office and a proposed townhome project, both under DMX zoning.

During the hearing, several board members and local residents voiced their support for the rezoning, citing the need for commercial development in the area. Concerns were raised about the potential for the project to stall if the zoning were approved without a specific site plan, but assurances were given that the project would proceed regardless of the outcome.

In a separate agenda item, the board also held a public hearing to discuss renaming Andromeda Avenue and a portion of Old Battle Bridge Road. The proposed changes include renaming Andromeda Avenue to Old Battle Bridge Road and the southern portion of Old Battle Bridge Road to Cotton Gin Road. This renaming is intended to improve emergency access and reflect the historical significance of the area. The board unanimously approved the renaming request, furthering the town's efforts to enhance local infrastructure and community identity.