DAWSONVILLE, Ga. – Reconvening for the first time since December, the Dawson County Planning Commission addressed a new application for rezoning.

Michelle Lipham voiced her intentions regarding her request after the approval of minutes from the previous meeting held on Dec. 21, 2021. She wants to rezone the land from RSRMM (Residential Sub Rural Manufactured Moved) to R-A (Residential Agricultural).

Concerning the agricultural purposes, Lipham wishes to sell flowers, shrubs and perennials to landscapers and florists as well as other interested parties.

As part of the application process, the applicant must include a list of adjacent property owners who have property touching the applicant’s or directly across the street. Lipham’s application affects six properties.

The surrounding properties to the North, South, East and West are classified R-A, RSRMM, RSRMM and RSRMM, respectively.

Staff analysis and impacts of rezoning application

When considering the possible effects on property values, the staff analysis concluded the land use classification should not negatively impact the area.

The nearby area and the size of Lipham’s land allow for the pursuit of agricultural activities, which the Planning Commission sees as a relative gain rather than a hardship to the public.

While the Planning Commission encourages the conservation of agricultural land, Lipham must consider soil and erosion control and natural buffer maintenance along property lines.

Lipham will also need to observe Best Management Practices, which the Environmental Protection Agency defines as effective techniques to control nonpoint source pollutants, when clearing and grading the site.

The observation of these practices concerns the containment of stormwater run-off and soil erosion in this case.

If any work on the land will impact the existing water main, then Lipham will need to contact the Etowah Water & Sewer Authority.

Lipham may need to contact more public facilities regarding her rezoning efforts. Any additional structures with restrooms require a septic system permit and all proposed structures require a building permit.

The Planning Commission will hold its next meeting on Feb. 15 at 6 p.m.

https://www.dawsoncounty.org/meetings