CLARKESVILLE — Habersham County officials have made additional changes to the proposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and are encouraging residents to review the latest draft and provide feedback ahead of a planned public town hall on April 13.
According to Public Information Officer Ashlyn Brady, county leaders have already addressed several community concerns and are continuing to evaluate other items as the ordinance moves toward a final vote by the Board of Commissioners.
One notable revision includes the removal of the derelict vehicle ordinance from the current draft following public input, Brady said.
Another key issue drawing attention is how the county plans to handle data centers. While local governments cannot outright prohibit such developments, the proposed UDO would require any data center project to obtain a special use permit. That process would require approval from both the Habersham County Planning Commission and the Board of Commissioners before moving forward.
The county is also reviewing additional standards and safeguards related to data center development, according to the release.
Leaders emphasized that the UDO is intended to be a “living, evolving document,” with changes continuing as feedback is received and discussions progress.
The county will host a public town hall at 6 p.m. on April 13 at the Ruby Fulbright Aquatic Center, where officials will present the latest updates and take public comment. All attendees who wish to speak will have an opportunity to ask questions and share input.
The meeting comes as the county continues a months-long process to overhaul its development code, which has drawn significant public interest and prompted multiple revisions and delays. County commissioners have previously postponed a final vote to allow additional public input and to ensure a full board is seated.
Officials are urging residents to review the updated draft ahead of the meeting and participate in the process.
Additional information, including the latest version of the UDO, is available on the county’s website.
