Despite a planning commission vote a few weeks ago, protests from residents in recent days and speeches Tuesday night from taxpayers in opposition, Gainesville City Council approved a rezoning request that will allow redevelopment of the Lanier Plaza shopping center on Thompson Bridge Road to proceed. “Irrespective of this development ... I think this zoning needs to be cleaned up,” Councilman Sam Couvillon said. A second reading and final approval will be made when the council meets May 20.