HOUGHTON — The City Council at its regular December meeting on Wednesday approved the proposed rezoning of several East Houghton properties near the edge of the dowtown district of Shelden Avenue. The rezoning of the properties was recommended to the Council by the Houghton Planning Commission.

Several factors regarding rezoning were raised for consideration of the members, such as whether the change might create an adverse effect on property values in the adjacent area; will the proposed amendment significantly increase noise in the area; will it satisfy a need in the community; and would it pose traffic and safety hazards.

At a public hearing on the rezoning question, which was held immediately before the regular Council meeting, Gregg Nominelli, owner of Quality Rentals, LLC, made the request for the rezoning.

Nominelli told the Council at its regular November meeting that currently the property use is limited to apartments and condominiums. The proposed rezoning would allow for a broader range of projects.

During Wednesday’s Public Hearing, Nominelli addressed the Council saying he has received comments and feedback from the community leaders and government officials that it seems that rezoning would create a good use of the property.

Rezoning would allow a mixed use of both commercial and residential purposes, Nominelli said, was the reason for the rezoning request.

To have mixed use, to have both commercial and residential as its own now, only available to be used for residential,” Nominelli said.

The Council unanimously approved the rezoning proposal by roll call vote.