The Atchison City Commission meeting on October 21, 2024, centered around a contentious rezoning request that has sparked significant community debate. The proposal aimed to rezone four properties located at 920 North Fourth Street, 908 North Fourth Street, 316 Unity Street, and 318 Unity Street from single-family residential (R1) to multi-family residential (R2). This request was met with a recommendation for denial from the Planning Commission, which voted 3-2 against the change, citing concerns from neighboring residents about maintaining the character of their community.

Phil Burke, the city’s zoning officer, presented the request, highlighting the extensive feedback from local residents who expressed a desire to preserve the single-family nature of the neighborhood. The discussion revealed a divide among commissioners and community members regarding the implications of allowing multi-family housing in an area predominantly characterized by single-family homes.

Commissioner concerns were particularly focused on the potential impact on neighborhood dynamics, with some expressing apprehension about the influx of college students and the associated challenges, such as noise and parking issues. One commissioner emphasized the importance of not discriminating against any group, including students, while acknowledging the need for additional housing in Atchison. This sentiment was echoed by several residents who argued that the community should not reject housing options based on the potential occupants.

Residents voiced their opinions during the public comment portion of the meeting, with some arguing that the proposed rezoning would alter the historic character of Fourth Street, which is known for its single-family homes and community events like Porchfest. They suggested that alternative sites for new housing could be explored, including vacant lots and repurposed commercial spaces, rather than changing the zoning of established neighborhoods.

The discussion also touched on the broader issue of housing availability in Atchison, with some residents advocating for more diverse housing options to accommodate the growing population, particularly students. However, concerns about parking and the preservation of community integrity remained central to the debate.

As the meeting concluded, the commission faced the challenge of balancing the need for housing with the desires of current residents to maintain their neighborhood's character. The outcome of this rezoning request remains uncertain, with further discussions anticipated in future meetings as the city navigates these complex community dynamics.