The City of Gardner Planning Commission has taken a significant step towards enhancing local residential zoning by approving the rezoning of approximately 2.6 acres of land from C1 Central Business District to R1 Single Family Residential. This decision, made during the meeting on October 28, 2024, addresses long-standing zoning anomalies that have affected property owners in the area.

The property in question, located on the east side of Moonlite Road, has been zoned C1 since a 1978 annexation, despite being surrounded by residential neighborhoods. The current zoning has created complications for homeowners, particularly those in the adjacent Cottage Creek Subdivision, who faced potential issues when selling their properties due to the mixed zoning. The Planning Commission's approval aims to align the zoning with the surrounding residential character, thereby resolving these complications and providing clarity for property owners.

City staff highlighted that the rezoning would not only bring the properties into compliance with the Land Development Code but also enhance the overall compatibility of the neighborhood. The change is seen as a necessary housekeeping measure to eliminate regulatory issues that could arise if properties were damaged or needed to be rebuilt under the existing C1 zoning.

In addition to the rezoning, the commission also discussed a conditional use permit for a daycare center to be established in the former New Life Church building on the same property. This proposal is expected to utilize the existing structure and may include an outdoor play area, further contributing to the community's family-friendly environment.

The Planning Commission's recommendations will now move forward to the governing body for final approval, marking a pivotal moment for the Gardner community as it seeks to foster a more cohesive residential landscape. The implications of these decisions are expected to positively impact property values and neighborhood stability, paving the way for future developments that align with the city's comprehensive plan for residential growth.