Cleveland approves rezoning next to Lee University

CLEVELAND, Tennessee (WDEF) – The Cleveland city council settled a controversy over the proposed rezoning of an area near Lee University from R-1 single family residential to P1, professional institutional.

A large crowd gathered as residents squared off against the change which involves the home of longtime mayor Harry Dethero.

The meeting started at one, but the vote wasn’t taken until after 4.

The university wants to use the property for light entertainment as well as space for visiting academics and other professionals who are visiting but not necessarily for entertainment.

The vote was 4 to 3 in favor of the zoning change.

The one city council member who abstained from voting was an employee of the university.