Athens-Clarke County commissioners also discussed a potential historic district in the Milledge Circle/Castalia Avenue area July 18, and some nearby homeowners are miffed because county planners have recommended a study area that’s larger than what was originally proposed.

Commissioners tried to reassure them at the agenda-setting meeting. Hamby said he is open to removing the newer homes on the west end of Milledge Circle, toward West Lake Drive, whose owners were mostly opposed to the idea of a historic district, which has been pushed mainly by owners of older homes on the Milledge Avenue side of the street.

As for homeowners on Cherokee Avenue, Catawba Avenue and Highland Terrace, whom planners have proposed including, Girtz told them it’s only a study. They won’t be included in the historic district against their will, but officials want to gather data in case someday they do, he said.