Stephens County Looks to Vinson Institute for Answers to Questions about Developing Zoning Ordinance
During a two-hour retreat in Eastanollee, Stephens County commissioners, administrators, and attorneys received answers to their questions about the process of creating a zoning ordinance from Vinson Institute land use and zoning expert Chrissy Marlowe.
The county, which currently has regulations regarding property subdivision but no zoning regulations, is exploring ways to keep the rights of individual landowners from conflicting. The Stephens County commission called on the Institute after citizens expressed concern over the odor emanating from a solid waste reclamation facility that is near a recreational area.
Marlowe detailed the steps necessary for formulating a zoning code that is balanced and assures the rights of landowners while protecting those characteristics that citizens identify as making Stephens County distinctive.
She and the group covered zoning concepts and private property rights and discussed ways of explaining to the public how zoning regulations can be a tool to prevent future land use conflicts. She also emphasized the importance of listening to citizen input and referring to the county's long-term comprehensive land use plan as the commission moves forward.
"A tailored zoning ordinance can help a county achieve its long-range vision without infringing upon landowner rights," Marlowe said.
Counties and municipalities throughout Georgia call on the Institute's local government services unit to assist in navigating such issues as government consolidation and structure, service delivery and equity, human resource management, annexation, and incorporation.
