Whitfield Commissioners to Vote on Urgent Rezoning, SPLOST Projects

In addition to rezoning, the commissioners will consider a critical amendment to the county’s Unified Zoning Ordinance. This amendment aims to clarify definitions related to biohazard and hazardous waste and introduce a new “Greenspace Courtyard Subdivision” option within UPUD zoning districts.

Another crucial agenda item involves awarding design contracts for three intersection improvement projects included in the county’s 2024 SPLOST program. Contracts for preliminary design work will be awarded as follows:

• Burgess & Niple: $59,429 for Reed Road at Rauschenberg/Timberghost.
• Burgess & Niple: $80,188 for Highway 201 at Old Lafayette/Houston Valley.
• Kimley-Horn: $196,611 for improvements at South Dixie Highway and Brickyard Road.

Officials indicate that these firms are committed to accelerated design schedules for completion in 2026 and early 2027.

Public Works is pushing for an increase in the residential driveway installation fee, which has remained at $450 for years. The proposed new rates are $950 for individual homeowners and $1,500 for minor subdivisions, reflecting rising material costs. Additionally, they aim to charge $300 per tandem truckload for asphalt millings to offset delivery costs.

The board will also consider accepting a $2,500 Hunger Innovation Grant for the Whitfield County Senior Center to fund the “Easy Healthy Eats for Seniors” initiative. Moreover, a $26,550 grant from the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust is up for ratification to support drug testing supplies for the Conasauga Drug Treatment Court.

Lastly, Whitfield County Transit is seeking approval for the purchase of three new buses totaling $363,672, with 90% of the cost covered by state and federal funding.

Other agenda items include public hearings on alcohol license transfers, a presentation from Convention & Visitors Bureau Director Margaret Thigpen, and a public comment period. This meeting is poised to impact many community members, making it essential for residents to stay informed.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops and check back for coverage on the outcomes of this crucial meeting.