CORNELIA, Ga. — A request to expand a planned mini-storage development along Level Grove Road was tabled Monday after Cornelia city commissioners raised concerns about the project’s appearance and impact at one of the city’s gateways.
The request involved a conditional use permit for a third parcel within a larger storage development near the Days Inn on Level Grove Road, adjacent to GA 365.
Harry Barton, representing the property owner, Todd Campbell, told commissioners the project had been delayed by an extended approval process involving Georgia Power. He said engineering challenges and utility requirements altered earlier development plans, prompting the request to allow mini-storage on an additional tract.
Several commissioners questioned whether more storage units were the best use of commercially zoned property at a prominent entrance to the city.
Commissioner Mark Reed expressed concern about the location, saying, “This is a highway business at the entrance into the city off the exit ramp. ‘Welcome to Cornelia — home of the mini-storage, not home of the Big Red Apple.'”
Members of the public urged the city to require more information before approving the project, citing the importance of maintaining attractive development standards along major corridors. Rather than deny the request, commissioners agreed to table the matter to allow the developer time to provide additional details for consideration, including renderings and landscaping plans.
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