Whitfield Commissioners Face Key Rezoning, Intersection Votes Today

UPDATE: The Whitfield County Board of Commissioners is set to make crucial decisions tonight, March 9, 2024, at a meeting scheduled for 6 p.m. in the courthouse at 205 N. Selvidge St., Dalton, GA. Key agenda items include several significant rezoning requests and intersection improvement projects.

Among the most pressing issues is a 61-acre residential rezoning proposal from SDH Atlanta LLC, aiming to convert land at Reed Road and Rauschenburg Road from General Agriculture (GA) to Low Density Single Family Residential (R-2). This proposal has previously sparked public interest and concern. Additionally, commissioners will evaluate other rezoning requests affecting various parcels across the county.

The agenda also includes a proposed amendment to the county’s Unified Zoning Ordinance, which aims to introduce definitions for biohazard waste and to permit data centers in designated areas. This amendment could significantly impact future development projects in the region.

Furthermore, the board will review designs for three critical intersection improvement projects funded by the 2024 SPLOST program. Contracts for preliminary design work are expected to be awarded to Burgess & Niple for two roundabouts—one at Reed Road and Rauschenberg/Timberghost for $59,429 and another at Highway 201 and Old Lafayette/Houston Valley for $80,188. Improvements at South Dixie Highway and Brickyard Road are projected to cost $196,611.

In a move that will affect local homeowners, Public Works is proposing to increase the residential driveway installation fee from $450 to $950 for individual homeowners and $1,500 for installations in minor subdivisions. This change is deemed necessary as current fees do not cover rising material costs.

On the grant front, commissioners will consider accepting a $2,500 Hunger Innovation Grant for the Whitfield County Senior Center, aimed at enhancing the “Easy Healthy Eats for Seniors” program. They will also ratify a $26,550 grant from the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust to provide drug testing supplies for the Conasauga Drug Treatment Court.

In transit developments, Whitfield County Transit is requesting approval to purchase three new buses for a total of $363,672, with the majority of the cost covered by state and federal funding.

Other agenda items include public hearings on alcohol license transfers, a 2025 annual report from the Convention & Visitors Bureau Director, and financial updates from county officials. The meeting will also feature a public comment period and may include an executive session related to real estate matters.

This meeting holds significant implications for the community as decisions made today could shape the future landscape of Whitfield County. Residents are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions as these developments unfold.