Aaron Little speaks as Rebecca Little looks on
The City Council on Tuesday night voted 7-1-1 to deny R-3 zoning for a short-term vacation rental in Lookout Valley.
The request was by Rebecca Little and her brother, Aaron Little, who have long battled the city, including in lengthy property litigation.
Ms. Little said guests at the 9.3-acre site on O'Grady Drive would be going by the residence of Councilman Chip Henderson. She said he had long delayed the request.
Councilman Henderson abstained.and Chris Anderson opposed the denial.
Ms. Little said similar requests have been approved "all over the county."
Councilman Yusuf Hakeem said a request for a short term vacation rental in his district was unopposed, but he noted that neighbors to the Littles were in opposition.
James Fox presented a petition of opposition from the Old Farm subdivision.
Curtis Buckles said he was concerned about his grandchildren playing in his back yard by the site. He said, "We would be adding so many strangers that we don't know."
City Attorney Wade Hinton said the couple can still apply under a new procedure for short term vacation rentals that just passed the Planning Commission.
It involves getting certification from the city's Land Development Office. Neighbors have a right to voice objections.
James Fox and Curtis Buckles were opposed