Jasper approves rezoning 180-day moratorium

JASPER, Ga.-The Jasper City Council approved a 180-day moratorium on rezoning in order to give the city a chance to review and analyze its rezoning ordinances. The decision came after determining they needed more qualified individuals for a comprehensive review.

“This may be the time to give us respite,” Brandon Douglas, city manager, said.

City Attorney David Syfan said 180 days was reasonable and because it was not a permanent change, did not require two hearing to be voted on.

The city council heard several rezoning requests including one to the Jasper Zoning Ordinance to include a new zoning district. The new zoning district Dense Residential In-Fill (DRI-6).

This would allow for building smaller houses  on smaller lots.

“This would allow first time home-buyers or senior citizens to own homes in the city,” said Syfan.

Douglas said the new designation would increase marketing ability and would help build community.

The council voted to rezone 26 Hickory Street to the new Dense Residential In-Fill.

To read previous news on the Jasper City Council, visit the Pickens County page.

The city council denied a rezoning request from Tishco Property to build at 62+Club Living complex at Hwy.53 West. The land is zoned commercial and the contractors requested a residential designation.

The city cited several concerns with the project, including proximity to the airport but allowed a continuance at an earlier meeting for the company to make change and do research into the developing near the airport. In the end, the changes did not persuade the council for approval.

The city council did vote to approve the rezoning request to rezone 1067 Philadelphia Road from commercial to residential for a senior living areas.

In other Jasper City news, the council approved:

• An approval of Resolution No. 2020-01 for the 2010 amended final budget for the City. This was for the 2019 audit presentation.
• Extending the City Manager Employment Agreement for Brandon Douglas to continue in his position.
• Approved the job descriptions for Finance Director/City Clerk; Deputy Finance Director; Deputy City Clerk; Customer Service Manager; Human Resource Director; Custodian; Customer Service Representative; Deputy Court Clerk/Administrative Assistant; Administrative Assistant in Development Department; Assistant Police Chief; Locator/Special Projects Coordinator; Meter Reader.
• Approved the creation and use of the City of Jasper Employee Evaluation Form.
• Approved a special land use permit for Old Philadelphia Road, Unit 102 from retail to light welding and fabrication.
• Approved purchasing playground equipment from Southeast Outdoor Solutions for up to $50,000.
• The rights-of-way purchase of 0.24 acres of Parcel JA12 075 for $35,000 for the road improvement project and to authorize the mayor and the city manager to execute the necessary documents a approved by the city attorney.
• The council tabled a requests from Donnie Fowler for a Special Event on Main Street.