The Florala City Council on Monday unanimously approved a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Committee that will change a property near the former hospital from residential to mix-use commercial status.

Planning and Zoning Board Chairman Sue Mathis, in a written statement to the council, reported the board’s five-to-one vote to recommend lots 8 through 11 of block 36 (23527 Goldenrod Ave.) be rezoned as a mix-use property, which allows for limited commercial use, such as daycares and treatment centers.

Property owner Russell Shields was not present at Monday’s public hearing on the matter, nor was there any discussion from the public regarding the rezoning; however, Shields’ real estate agent, Sally Merrifield, spoke for her client and told council members the rezoning was something he supports.

“At the time that we asked for this rezoning, we were involved in an application process, but that has not come to fruition,” Merrifield said. “At this point in time, we do not have a contract on the property, nor do I know if that party will come back. But, we would like to continue to ask the property be rezoned because the majority of the inquires I get on that property, they are wanting the mix-use zoning.”