Cleveland outlines potential annexation plans

CLEVELAND, Ga. — Cleveland officials are providing more details about a potential expansion of the city limits, stressing that the proposed annexations remain under consideration and that no final boundaries have been approved.

The city is evaluating areas along two of Cleveland’s primary corridors — Highway 129 South and Helen Highway to the north — where the city’s utility services already extend beyond city limits. In a statement issued Sept. 28, the city said the goal is to better align Cleveland’s municipal boundaries along the primary transportation and growth corridors where those services are offered.

Highway 129 South

To the south, Cleveland is considering extending its city limits approximately 1.6 miles along Highway 129, from the current boundary near Truelove Road to Westmoreland Road. According to the city, the proposal would include the highway right-of-way and parcels directly fronting Highway 129 South.

“No residential tracts or parcels that do not directly adjoin Highway 129 South have been considered for annexation, nor will they be included in any proposed annexation,” stressed city spokesperson Bre Bardenwerper.

She added that aligning city limits to existing services would help Cleveland provide “a clearer framework for future infrastructure, services, business growth, and development.”

North Cleveland

The potential northern expansion is less clearly defined.

According to Bardenwerper, White County has asked Cleveland to annex the right-of-way along Helen Highway from the current city limits north to Hulsey Road, where the county government complex is located. Cleveland already provides utility services along the corridor toward Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s Urgent Care facility.

The city is still developing boundaries for the northern area and will release a map once one is available.

The city is considering the request as it develops boundaries for the northern expansion.

Public input before final decision

“These annexation discussions remain in the proposal stage. As boundaries are developed, the city will provide maps and additional information, so residents and property owners can clearly see and understand the areas being considered,” said Bardenwerper.

Officials said they will notify affected property owners and hold public hearings before taking any final action.

“The City of Cleveland remains committed to thoughtful, responsible planning that supports future growth while ensuring its municipal boundaries appropriately reflect the areas and corridors the City already serves,” the city said.