Author: H Ermes

STOCKBRIDGE CITY COUNCIL Mayor Jayden L. Williams At-Large Council Meeting Agenda April 13, 2026 6:00 PM Mayor Pro Tem Elton Alexander Council District 5 Councilmember LaKeisha Gantt Council District 1 Councilmember Antwan Cloud Council District 2 Councilmember Kyle D. Berry, Sr. Council District 3 Councilmember Yolanda Barber Council District 4 CITY MANAGER STOCKBRIDGE CITY HALL Shawn Edmondson 4640 NORTH HENRY BLVD. INTERIM CITY CLERK Cassandra Lester CITY TREASURER Frank Milazi CITY ATTORNEY Quinton G. Washington Megan McCulloch STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281 Website: www.stockbridgega.org Phone: 770-389-7900 Fax: 770-389-7912 Translation and Interpretation Services are available with (7) days prior notice. Please contact the City’s HR Manager at 770-389-7908 for assistance. AGENDA COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2026 6:00 PM CALL TO ORDER INVOCATION PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES 1 Approval of the Work Session Meeting Minutes March 31, 2026 PUBLIC COMMENTS - All persons wishing to speak for public comment must sign in with the City Clerk prior to the beginning of the meeting. You must sign your name, address, and phone number. You will be able to address the Mayor and Council for three (3) minutes. Speakers must respect all members of the elected body, officials, and staff. Defamation, unruliness and/or swearing will not be tolerated while meetings are in session. CEREMONIAL REVIEW: Proclamations for Autism Acceptance and Black Bookstore Month PRESENTATION 2 PRESENTATION ON POTENTIAL SMALL AREA STUDIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN. (Citywide) The Community Development Department has examined the possibility of undertaking one or more small area studies within the City. Ten (10) potential small areas have been identified and ranked for consideration, based on several factors. The studies would be coordinated with other City planning endeavors. - Presented by: Ryan Anderson PUBLIC HEARING 3 VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026-01. (Council District 2) Consideration of a variance application for the request of two variances, as are Page | 3 listed below, for Parcel #S20-03003000 on Wilson Avenue to allow for the construction of a new single-family detached dwelling. Property Owners: Laura Bernal Gopar and Luis A. Gopar-Carmona. Applicant: Jerry Robinson. The property is located in Land Lot 36 of District 12, and it contains 0.613 +/- acres. ~ Variance Request #1: Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet within the SR (Suburban Residential) zoning district. ~ Variance Request #2: Reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet within the SR (Suburban Residential) zoning district. - Presented by: Ryan Anderson NEW BUSINESS 4 Council consideration of a purchase agreement for SPD K9 Moos with his current handler, SPD LT. Zimmerman - Presented by: Richard Godfrey 5 QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL OF REMNANT TRACT AT 2125 JODECO ROAD. (Council District 5) Council consideration of the quitclaim disposal of a portion of the remnant tract at 2125 Jodeco Road, which is owned by the City, to allow the tract to be used by Tidal Wave Auto Spa in the development of its property. O.C.G.A. § 36-376(g) allows governments to convey a small strip of land to an abutting property owner without an auction or bidding process. Section 3.30.170(C) of Municode requires City Council to first declare the strip to be “unserviceable.” - Presented by: Ryan Anderson 6 (First Reading) SOUTH BERRY STREET RENAMING. (Council District 2) Council consideration of a resolution to rename South Berry Street to "Alphonso Thomas Street" to honor the longtime public servant's decades of service to the Stockbridge community. This action supports the City's continued efforts to recognize leaders who have made significant historical and civic contributions to the City. - Presented by: Ryan Anderson 7 (First Reading) TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2026-02. (Citywide) Consideration of a text amendment to the Stockbridge Municode to establish a process for requesting, initiating, approving, and implementing the renaming of streets and public facilities within the Stockbridge City Limits. - Presented by: Ryan Anderson MAYOR'S COMMENTS (Jayden L. Williams) EXECUTIVE SESSION (Exemptions to the Georgia Open Meetings Acts) ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS Council meetings will be held in the City Council Chamber, while some Board and Committee meetings will take place via Zoom. Meeting dates and times may change, so please check the city's website at www.stockbridgega.org or contact City Hall at 770-389-7900 for updates. The City of Stockbridge April 13, 2026 6:00 PM 4640 N. Henry Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900 Page | 4 complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and does not discriminate based on disability. Individuals requiring auxiliary services for meeting participation should contact City Hall at 770-389-7900 in advance. ADJOURNMENT April 13, 2026 6:00 PM 4640 N. Henry Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900 CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION SUMMARY MINUTES TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2026 6:00 P.M. Mayor & City Council Mayor Jayden L. Willams At-Large Mayor Pro Tem Elton Alexander – Council District 5 Councilmember LaKeisha Gantt – Council District 1 Councilmember Antwan Cloud – Council District 2 Councilmember Kyle D. Berry, Sr. – Council District 3 Councilmember Yolanda Barber – Council District 4 Administration Shawn Edmondson – City Manager Frank Milazi – City Treasurer Cassandra Lester – Interim City Clerk Quinton Washington – City Attorney Megan McCullough – Associate Attorney Mission: To provide visionary leadership and superior municipal services that enhance the quality of life for citizens while creating a welcoming business atmosphere focused on sustainability and expansion of tourism and cultural events. Mayor Williams called the meeting to order at 6:03 p.m. Councilmember Berry led the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. All members were present; Councilmember Gantt arrived at 6:39pm. Mayor Williams requested adoption of the agenda with an amendment to add item number 10 under New Business for the 2025 audit agreement from the city's auditor, as confirmed by City Treasurer Frank Milazi. Motion: Councilmember Berry motioned to amend and adopt the agenda to add item number 10 for the 2025 audit agreement; seconded by Councilmember Yolanda Barber. The Motion passed 4-0. Approval of the City Council Special Called Meeting Minutes February 12, 2026 Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the February 12, 2026 minutes; seconded by Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 4-0. Approval of the City Council Meeting Minutes March 09, 2026 Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve the March 09, 2026 minutes; seconded by Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 4-0. 1|Page Interim Clerk Lester noted six public comments were submitted. Michelle Moody (100 Mimosa Drive) raised safety concerns about the intersection of Hillcrest Road and Bowen Drive, citing a dangerous creek with a steep drop-off and requesting consideration of a guardrail or barrier. She provided photographs and was directed to follow up with City Manager Mr. Edmondson. Charles Dubs (108 South Lee Street) spoke in opposition to the Lee Street name change, presenting documentation showing former Mayor Lee lived at 108 South Lee Street for years. He detailed Lee's contributions to Stockbridge, including helping establish Stockbridge High School, getting streets paved from McDonough to Atlanta, and bringing electricity to the city. Council voted 3-0-2 to allow him to complete his comments beyond the three-minute limit. Willie Carter (123 Wilson Ave) opposed the street name change, noting the city already has Martin Luther King Heritage Trail and expressing concern that changing the name would not benefit the underprivileged community area. Anthony Ford (708 Lilly Glenn Lane) spoke in favor of the street name change, explaining it would create MLK-named streets on both sides of downtown as it develops. He noted his personal connection to Dr. King through their shared fraternity membership and suggested adding "Doctor" to the proposed name. Ford believed this would make Stockbridge unique in having father and son honored on both sides of downtown. Judy Neal (174 Eagles Club Drive) opposed the name change, citing concerns about impacts on businesses like Pinehurst catering facility, potential delays in Google Maps updates, and costs. She referenced the estimated $95,000-$130,000 cost of statues in today's money and argued the city should focus on supporting Henry County School System initiatives instead of pursuing divisive street renaming. Charles Marshall (140 Somerset Hills) supported the street name change, noting that 955 streets have been named or renamed after MLK across 41 states and 1,000 other places worldwide. He emphasized the King family's historical connection to Stockbridge and the opportunity to honor Dr. King's legacy alongside the existing MLK Senior Heritage Trail. PRESENTATION Henry County Schools City of Stockbridge Update Presentation Assistant Superintendent Dr. Cemond Robinzine presented updates on behalf of Henry County Schools, joined by board members and principals from Stockbridge cluster schools. The presentation highlighted that Henry County Schools is the eighth largest district in Georgia with approximately 42,000 students and over 6,000 employees, making it the largest employer in Henry County. Key highlights included the community-inspired strategic plan with five strategic actions focusing on learning opportunities, educator retention, community connections, health and wellness, and operational culture. The district has achieved notable successes including Stockbridge Elementary School exiting the federal Target Support 2|Page Improvement designation, significant safety infrastructure investments totaling over $30 million, and expansion of arts and STEM programs. The presentation covered upcoming E-SPLOST VII initiatives and the development of a new five-year strategic plan. Mayor Williams opened the floor for discussion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander asked about a previous study on school capacity that indicated pockets of high intensity but overall available seats in the school system despite community growth; Questioned how the recent school enrollment trends align with growth and capacity planning. Deputy Superintendent Summer Cox confirmed the district conducts periodic enrollment studies with external partners. She noted a slight overall reduction in school enrollment over recent years, consistent with state and national trends and projected some growth in enrollment at specific schools over the next 5-10 years, with plans for additions at Dutchtown Elementary and Tussahaw Elementary. Mentioned that community development does not always translate to increased school enrollment. Mayor Pro Tem Alexander asked about growth and capacity specifically for Flippin Elementary and Union Grove Elementary schools, noting that many students in his district attend these schools while having McDonough addresses. Mayor Pro Tem Alexander then requested data on these schools’ enrollments and expressed interest in pursuing safe routes to school funding for sidewalk connections in new neighborhoods near Hickory Flat Elementary and Flippin Elementary. Deputy Superintendent Summer Cox acknowledged the requests and indicated willingness to follow up on possible sidewalk projects and safe routes to school funding. Noting that the E-SPLOST VII plan is under review and that suggestions for sidewalk improvements may be considered for future projects. Councilmember Gantt inquired about population planning and expressed appreciation for reduced use of trailers and new school additions. CONSENT AGENDA Confirmation of the Chief of Police Scott Hamilton with an official start date of April 13, 2026. Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to confirm Scott Hamilton as the new Chief of Police with an official start date of April 13, 2026; seconded by Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 5-0. Chief Hamilton addressed the governing body, thanking them for their confidence and promising to elevate the already respected Stockbridge Police Department to the next level with professionalism, transparency, and accountability. He introduced his family and committed to serving his new Stockbridge family. 3|Page Mayor Pro Tem Alexander noted that Chief Hamilton is the first African American police chief appointed in both the city of Austell and the city of Stockbridge. OLD BUSINESS Street Name Changes for North Lee Street and South Lee Street Community Development Director Ryan Anderson reported that staff conducted additional research through over 60 pages of documents but could not find conclusive evidence of who Lee Street was named after. Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to rename North Lee Street and South Lee Street to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way; seconded by Councilmember Gantt. Discussion: Councilmember Barber stated her opposition to the name change. She emphasized that North Lee and South Lee streets are in her district, and the initiative did not originate from her, but affects the residents and stakeholders in the district she is duly elected to represent. She expressed concern about impacts on homeowners and business owners who have lived on Lee Street for decades and noted their public comments opposing the change. Barber requested that council reconsider the initiative, stating it would not benefit her district. Councilmember Berry questioned Mr. Anderson about the research findings. Anderson confirmed they found evidence of former Mayor Lee living on Lee Street but could not locate definitive documentation stating the street was named after him. Based on typical street naming conventions involving largest property owners, first settlers, landmarks, or famous people, Anderson suggested it could “likely” be concluded the street was named after the Lee family. Councilmember Barber presented and referenced an administrator's deed of sale stamped by Henry County that showed William Jackson Lee's connection to the property, citing it supported the street being named after former Mayor Lee. Mayor Williams called for the vote: The Motion passed 3-1-1 (Councilmember Barber opposed, Councilmember Berry Abstained). NEW BUSINESS Council consideration to approve the increase in the City's paid Basic Life Insurance benefit from $10,000 to $50,000, effective April 1, 2026. Human Resources Director Dwayne Pollock presented the proposal using the EPAS model (enhance, provide, align, strengthen) to improve employee benefits. He noted that the current life insurance policy benefit amount of $10,000 is insufficient and is not enough to cover typical funeral expenses in today’s economy. The increase would raise monthly costs from $2.65 to $11.20 per employee, with a total annual cost increase of $19,000. Mr. Pollock emphasized that the adjustment would demonstrate the City’s commitment to employee well-being, provide stronger financial protection, improve competitiveness with peer municipalities, and support talent recruitment and retention. Councilmember Barber inquired about a specific budget line item, to which Mr. Pollack confirmed that the line item is described as "employee group life insurance." 4|Page Councilmember Barber then asked for the approved budgeted amount for this line item. Mr. Pollack responded, “when we receive the annual renewals for the carrier for insurance, the annual amount for this particular coverage is $5,846.00.” Motion: Councilmember Gantt motioned to authorize the increase of the city's basic life and AD&D benefit from $10,000 to $50,000 effective April 1, 2026; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The Motion passed 5-0. Council consideration to approve Dianna Hunt & Associates, Inc. to provide acquisition services for approximately 43 parcels in connection with the Tye Street Multi-Use Path Project right-of-way acquisitions - First phase of acquisition services estimated to forty thousand dollars. Funding source is from TSPLOST. Public Works Director Decius Aaron explained this is a TSPLOST project where plans have been prepared and easements drawn up. The request is to use Diana Hunt and Associates for the first phase of three phases of easement preparation. Motion: Councilmember Berry motioned to approve; seconded by Councilmember Cloud. Discussion: Councilmember Barber inquired about how many phases to the project has, to which Mr. Aaron confirmed there are three total phases to the project. Mayor Williams called for the vote: The Motion passed 5-0. Council consideration to approve piggybacking of Macon-Bibb County RFP No. 24-022-LH Traffic Signal Repairs and Maintenance Services, issued April 5, 2024, with Riverside Traffic Solutions, LLC. Mr. Aaron explained that as part of the renewed service delivery strategy and annexation, the city assumed responsibility for multiple traffic signals. Riverside Traffic Solutions previously performed work for Henry County and is familiar with the signals. The company has been responsive to traffic signal issues, and staff recommends continuing their services. Councilmember Barber asked if this would be the first time piggybacking off this specific contract to which Mr. Aaron clarified for “traffic signal maintenance. Yes, ma'am” Motion: Councilmember Gantt motioned to approve; seconded by Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 5-0. Council consideration to approve the purchase of two vehicles for departmental use at a cost not to exceed $94,910. The funding for this purchase is available in the fiscal year 2026 budget. Community Development Director Ryan Anderson explained the request is for two vehicles - one for the permitting and inspections division and one for the new business compliance officer position. He noted that in 2023, the city promised five vehicles when permitting and inspection was brought in-house, but this equipment had not been received until now and is presenting the request for two trucks. 5|Page Councilmember Barber asked if the purchase was included in the community development budget, to which Mr. Anderson confirmed, “Yes.“ Motion: Councilmember Gantt motioned to approve; seconded by Councilmember Berry. The Motion passed 5-0. 2025 Fiscal Audit Agreement City Treasurer Frank Milazi explained that this annual engagement agreement with the audit firm Mauldin and Jenkins is part of their five-year contract from 2023-2028. The agreement stipulates what the auditors will do when they come for the audit on May 4th 2026 and specifies documentation requirements and city responsibilities. Motion: Mayor Pro Tem Alexander motioned to approve; seconded by Councilmember Berry. The Motion passed 5-0 MAYOR'S COMMENTS Mayor Williams deferred his comments for executive session. EXECUTIVE SESSION Motion to adjourn to executive session for real estate, personnel, litigation, and cybersecurity was made by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander, seconded by Councilmember Cloud. The Motion passed 5-0. Motion to adjourn from executive session made by Councilmember Berry; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Alexander. The Motion passed 3-0. Councilmembers Gantt and Cloud were not present on the dais. From executive session, associate attorney Megan McCullough presented to governing body a Norfolk Southern lease agreement for real property located at milepost 171.308, with the goal of converting the area into a parking lot for a vote. Motion: Councilmember Cloud motioned to approve the lease agreement; seconded by Councilmember Barber. The Motion passed 5-0. Motion to adjourn the meeting made by Councilmember Gantt; seconded by Councilmember Berry. The motion passed 5-0. The meeting adjourned at 8:56pm Respectfully submitted by: ______________________________ ______________________________ Cassandra Lester, Interim City Clerk Jayden L. Williams, Mayor 6|Page APRIL 13, 2026 ✔ Ryan Anderson Community Development PRESENTATION ON POTENTIAL SMALL AREA STUDIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN. The Community Development Department has examined the possibility of undertaking one or more small area studies within the City. Ten (10) potential small areas have been identified and ranked for consideration, based on several factors. The studies would be coordinated with other City planning endeavors. Cities conduct small area studies to first identify and understand the existing conditions of each small area, then to prepare plans or make recommendations for the improvement and well-being of those areas. The Staff identified the reasons why a particular small area might need to be studied. ✔ $0.00 PRESENTATION ON POTENTIAL SMALL AREA STUDIES TO BE UNDERTAKEN APPROVAL A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH A Strategic Blueprint for City Growth: Potential Small Area Studies TO: Stockbridge Mayor and City Council FROM: Brennen Reilly, GIS Analyst/Planner II, Planning and Zoning Division Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director April 13, 2026 CC: DATE: 1 A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 2 Table of Contents 1. Purpose of the Staff Report ...................................................................................... 4 2. Overview of the Small Area Planning Approach ........................................................ 4 2.1 Definition of Small Study Area Analysis ............................................................... 4 2.2 Rationale for Corridor-Based and Neighborhood-Based Plans ............................. 4 3. Methodology ............................................................................................................ 4 4. Small Area Plans ...................................................................................................... 5 4.1 Area A – Rock Quarry Road, Northern Portion ..................................................... 5 4.2 Area B – Rock Quarry Road, Southern Portion .................................................. 11 4.3 Area C – Highway 138 West.............................................................................. 15 4.4 Area D – Davidson Parkway .............................................................................. 20 4.5 Area E – North Henry Boulevard / Highway 42 (Northern Segment) ................... 24 4.6 Area F – East Atlanta Road, Southern Section ................................................... 28 4.7 Area G – North Henry Boulevard, Central Section ............................................. 32 4.8 Area H – North Stockbridge ............................................................................... 37 4.9 Area I – Atlanta Highway / Highway 42 .............................................................. 41 4.10 Area J – Eastern Section of North Henry Boulevard ......................................... 44 5. Appendices ............................................................................................................ 50 5.1 Area A: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 50 5.2 Area B: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 50 5.3 Area C: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 51 5.4 Area D: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 51 5.5 Area E: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 52 5.6 Area F: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 52 A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 3 5.7 Area G: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 53 5.8 Area H: Maps and Charts .................................................................................. 53 5.9 Area I: Maps and Charts ................................................................................... 54 5.10 Area J: Maps and Charts ................................................................................. 54 5.11 All Areas: Demographic Maps .......................................................................... 55 A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 4 1. Purpose of the Staff Report This staff report presents a consolidated Small Area Plans document for ten targeted study areas (A–J) across the City of Stockbridge. It translates the broad goals and policies of the City’s Comprehensive Plan into specific, location-based strategies that address unique local conditions while advancing citywide priorities for housing diversity, economic vitality, multimodal mobility, and neighborhood stability. By synthesizing detailed zoning analysis, existing conditions inventories, demographic data, and thematic mapping, the report equips the Mayor and City Council with clear, actionable recommendations, phased implementation steps, potential partners, and funding sources to guide near-term decisions and long-term growth in a coordinated, equitable manner. 2. Overview of the Small Area Planning Approach 2.1 Definition of Small Study Area Analysis Small study area analysis is a planning method that isolates defined geographic segments—typically corridors or neighborhoods—for detailed examination of land use patterns, zoning, built form, infrastructure, demographics, and environmental features. Each area is evaluated independently yet remains aligned with the Comprehensive Plan, enabling targeted recommendations that respond to the unique character and challenges of that specific location rather than applying uniform citywide solutions. 2.2 Rationale for Corridor-Based and Neighborhood-Based Plans Corridor-based and neighborhood-based plans are particularly effective in Stockbridge because many of the study areas follow major arterials or established residential clusters where development pressures, compatibility issues, and infrastructure needs are most concentrated. This scale allows the City to address linear systems (such as traffic flow, commercial frontage, and transit potential) alongside cohesive residential fabrics, ensuring that recommendations for housing strategies, economic revitalization, land-use coordination, or transportation improvements are both geographically precise and mutually reinforcing across adjacent areas. 3. Methodology The ten small area plans were developed through a systematic review of current zoning maps, parcel data, existing land-use inventories, and census-tract-level demographic indicators. Insights from thematic maps illustrating poverty rates, cost-burdened households, dependent-age populations, median age, birth rates, predominant housing occupancy, and racial/ethnic composition were integrated to reveal spatial patterns and A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 5 disparities. All findings were cross-referenced with the City’s Comprehensive Plan chapters on Housing, Future Land Use, Economic Development, and Transportation to ensure full policy alignment. Recommendations were organized into short-term (0–2 years), mid-term (3–5 years), and long-term (5+ years) actions, with explicit identification of partners and funding sources to support immediate implementation. 4. Small Area Plans 4.1 Area A – Rock Quarry Road, Northern Portion 4.1.1. Executive Summary The northern portion of Rock Quarry Road serves as Stockbridge’s primary heavy industrial corridor, dominated by Heavy Industrial (HI) zoning across 72.95% of the area. Characterized by large-scale industrial uses including mining, warehouses, and fleet maintenance alongside limited multi-family residential pockets, the study area functions as a key employment node. Primary issues include underutilized parcels, aging infrastructure, conflicts at the industrial-residential interface, and sparse multimodal connectivity. The primary planning focus is Economic Development. Leveraging the ongoing GDOT Rock Quarry Road widening project, this plan envisions the corridor evolving into a modern, well-buffered heavy industrial district with upgraded flex-space facilities, improved site readiness, and enhanced compatibility with adjacent neighborhoods, delivering high-quality jobs while respecting residential character. 4.1.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This study area requires focused planning attention because it contains the City’s largest contiguous concentration of Heavy Industrial zoning and uses, yet many parcels remain underutilized with aging infrastructure that limits job growth and expansion. Challenges include poor buffering and compatibility issues where industrial uses abut residential areas, limited sidewalk and trail connectivity, and a lack of unified identity or marketing for the industrial cluster. Opportunities exist to capitalize on the GDOT road widening project to improve access, upgrade utilities, and attract advanced manufacturing and logistics firms. The plan directly supports the Comprehensive Plan’s Economic Development and Future Land Use goals by promoting business retention, site readiness, and rational industrial development along this important corridor while protecting quality of life in nearby neighborhoods. 4.1.3. Study Area Description 4.1.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area A encompasses 66 parcels totaling 1,084 acres along the northern portion of Rock Quarry Road. As shown in Appendix 5.1, Map 1, the study area is positioned as a significant industrial node within the City of Stockbridge, with residential neighborhoods located along its eastern and southern edges. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 6 4.1.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area A is characterized by a mix of auto-related uses, multifamily residential units, and prevalent industrial activities, including mining operations, warehouses, and fleet maintenance facilities. Appendix 5.1, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is overwhelmingly industrial, with Heavy Industrial (HI) districts covering 72.95% of the land area, followed by Light Industrial (LI) at 17.96%. Smaller portions include Multi-Family Residential (MFR) at 8.14%, with minimal Suburban Residential (SR), C2, and C3 zoning. According to the demographic maps of Appendix 5.11, the surrounding census tracts show a notable presence of dependent age groups (under 18 and 65+), ranging from 30.5% to 40.2%, indicating a population with significant child and senior populations that may rely on local employment opportunities or require careful management of industrialresidential transitions. Housing occupancy varies, with renter-occupied units predominant in some tracts (up to 63.78%) and owner-occupied units stronger in others (up to 76.72%). Cost-burdened households range widely from 22.04% to 54.52%, suggesting varying levels of housing affordability pressure near the industrial corridor. Birth rates among women aged 15-50 in the past 12 months are relatively low in one tract (1.4%) but higher in another (13.0%), pointing to differing family formation trends. Median ages span from 28.4 to 38.9 years, reflecting a generally younger working-age population in some areas. Poverty rates remain modest, between 3.4% and 9.3%, which is consistent with an employment-focused industrial district that may provide job opportunities even as surrounding residential areas experience mixed economic conditions. The built environment reflects large-scale industrial parcels with supporting access roads, while environmental features include typical suburban topography with no major floodplains prominently noted in available data. Overall, the data portray an area with strong industrial capacity but transitional residential edges that require thoughtful compatibility measures. 4.1.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit, bike infrastructure) includes Rock Quarry Road, which is experiencing a road widening project with GDOT collaboration. The widening is expected to result in a short-term reduction in traffic congestion and an improvement in driver’s experience and comfort, while in the long-term traffic volume will increase. The road will be extending beyond its intersection at North Henry Boulevard, to Old Conyers Road and eventually from Old Conyers Road to the intersection of East Atlanta Road and Valley Hill Road. This project will likely balance traffic distribution along Rock Quarry Road, North Henry Boulevard, East Atlanta Road, Old Conyers Road, and Valley Hill Road. Rock Quarry Road is one of ten roads that are functionally classified as non-local roads in the City of Stockbridge according to the Georgia Department of Transportation, indicating the roadway’s higher traffic volume potential and its capacity for serving longer trips. The MLK Sr. Heritage A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 7 Trail connects Rock Quarry Road to the downtown region, runs parallel to the Norfolk Southern Railway, and has sidewalks along it as part of a commemorative effort honoring the legacy of MLK Sr., a former resident of the City; however, the sidewalks do not extend to Rock Quarry Road. Red Oak Road has many residential units between this road and Banks Road. Banks Road has many industrial uses along the eastern portion of the road and many residential units between this road and Red Oak Road. Reeves Parkway is a corridor connecting Rock Quarry Road to Rum Creek Parkway with no uses along the corridor. Rum Creek Parkway extends from Reeves Parkway to a dead end with three known industrial uses along the corridor. Sidewalks have sparse presence throughout the area. They exist within the Elevate Apartment Complex and extend northward to Reeves Parkway and southward to the beginning of the deceleration lane at the apartment complex’s entrance. These sidewalks do not connect to any of the city’s commercial spaces, community amenities and centers, or other residential communities, indicating the sidewalks’ low connectivity and signifying low community usage rates. No transit or bike infrastructure is present at the location. Utilities and public infrastructure, along with known deficiencies or constraints, are documented in supporting materials. 4.1.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include the Economic Development Goal to attract/retain high-quality, diverse employers with quality facilities (Chapter 4, p. 42), policies supporting business retention/expansion and reinvestment in declining/vacant industrial sites, Future Land Use policies encouraging rational commercial/industrial nodes and avoiding incompatible strip development (Chapter 4, p. 44), Action items ED.1–ED.3, ED.6 (Business Partnership, Economic Development Plan, Site Designation), and Transportation actions supporting Rock Quarry Road widening and multi-use paths (T.7). Alignment Explanation: The proposed vision and actions directly advance the Comprehensive Plan’s economic development framework by targeting reinvestment in the dominant HI-zoned industrial cluster along Rock Quarry Road, consistent with the Plan’s emphasis on industrial growth along SR 155/US 23 corridors and site readiness. By incorporating vegetative buffers and access management, the study reinforces Future Land Use policies for compatibility and “sense of place” while leveraging the Plan’s Transportation element for coordinated widening and trail extensions. These strategies position the area as a job-generating node that supports the City’s broader goal of balanced growth without encroaching on residential character. 4.1.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Underutilized Heavy Industrial parcels limiting job growth and site readiness. The large contiguous HI district contains older mining, warehouse, and fleetmaintenance uses with aging infrastructure that constrains expansion. Modern flexspace redevelopment can attract advanced manufacturing and logistics firms. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • • 8 Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Conduct industrial site inventory and business retention survey. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Upgrade utilities and access roads serving the core HI district. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop underutilized HI parcels into modern industrial flex space with rail/truck access. Potential Partners: City Economic Development and Community Development Departments, Henry County Development Authority, existing industrial property owners. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA Economic Development grants, U.S. EDA Public Works grants, local SPLOST, private developer contributions. Issue/Opportunity 2: Industrial-residential interface conflicts along eastern and southern edges. HI zoning directly abuts limited MFR and SR parcels, creating noise, visual, and traffic concerns at the transition zones visible on the zoning map. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install wayfinding signage and basic landscaping buffers at residential-industrial interfaces. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Implement voluntary façade and screening improvements through a matching grant program. o Long-Term (5+ years): Construct a dedicated industrial access road bypassing residential neighborhoods. Potential Partners: City Community Development Department, property owners. Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund, Georgia DCA CDBG, private performance agreements. Issue/Opportunity 3: Limited multimodal connectivity and sparse sidewalks. Sidewalks exist only within the Elevate Apartments and do not connect to commercial or other residential areas; no bike or transit infrastructure is present. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Extend MLK Sr. Heritage Trail sidewalks to Rock Quarry Road. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Add pedestrian-scale lighting along key collector roads. o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish shared-use path connections to future city-wide trail network. Potential Partners: City Public Works Department, GDOT District 3. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), SPLOST. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 9 Issue/Opportunity 4: Opportunity to leverage ongoing Rock Quarry Road widening. GDOT widening will reduce short-term congestion but increase long-term volumes, creating a window for coordinated industrial access improvements. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Apply for quick-turnaround technical assistance for site readiness assessment. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop an Industrial Business Park marketing plan. o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish a formal Industrial Park with shared infrastructure. Potential Partners: GDOT, City Economic Development, ARC. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Local Government Road and Street Program, EDA grants. Issue/Opportunity 5: Lack of unified wayfinding and marketing for the industrial cluster. The area functions as an industrial node but lacks identity or coordinated promotion. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Host quarterly “Industrial Roundtable” with local manufacturers and install wayfinding signage. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Create small business technical assistance program tailored to heavy industrial users. o Long-Term (5+ years): Launch targeted recruitment campaign for advanced manufacturing. Potential Partners: Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Department of Economic Development. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia Department of Labor workforce funds, local SPLOST. 4.1.6. Vision & Planning Framework By 2040, the Rock Quarry Road Northern Portion will evolve into a modern, well-buffered heavy industrial corridor that serves as Stockbridge’s primary economic engine. Dominated by Heavy Industrial (HI) zoning across 73% of the area, the district will feature upgraded flex-industrial facilities, shared infrastructure, and strategic rail/truck access while maintaining clear vegetative buffers and compatibility standards at interfaces with the limited Multi-Family Residential and Suburban Residential pockets. The vision delivers high-quality jobs, efficient goods movement, and reinvestment that respects adjacent neighborhoods, aligning with the City’s goal of targeted economic growth along established industrial corridors. 4.1.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Economic Development. Rationale: The zoning map is dominated by a large, contiguous block of HI – Heavy Industrial District A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 10 (purple) occupying the majority of the northern portion, with smaller transitional pockets of MFR, SR, and limited commercial zoning along Rock Quarry Road. This spatial pattern points to an industrial cluster that offers the greatest planning impact through targeted economic strategies such as business recruitment, site readiness, and industrial revitalization rather than broad land-use rebalancing. The area’s scale and location make it a priority for near-term economic implementation. Key Indicators Observed: Large contiguous Heavy Industrial zoning, proximity of industrial uses to residential edges requiring compatibility management, potential underutilized or transitional parcels along the road corridor. Alternative Category: Land Use (secondary, as compatibility between industrial and residential is important but secondary to the economic opportunity presented by the dominant HI zoning). 4.1.8. Implementation Strategy 4.1.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Conduct industrial site inventory and business retention survey along Rock Quarry Road corridor. Launch targeted outreach to existing HI-zoned property owners for expansion/upgrade needs. Install wayfinding signage and basic landscaping buffers at residential-industrial interfaces. Host quarterly “Industrial Roundtable” with local manufacturers. Apply for quick-turnaround technical assistance grant for site readiness assessment. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Upgrade utilities and access roads serving the core HI district. Develop an Industrial Business Park marketing plan and online portal. Implement voluntary facade and screening improvements through a matching grant program. Create a small business technical assistance program tailored to heavy industrial users. Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop underutilized HI parcels into modern industrial flex space with rail/truck access. Establish a formal Industrial Park with shared infrastructure. Construct a dedicated industrial access road bypassing residential neighborhoods. 4.1.8.2 Potential Partners City of Stockbridge Departments of Economic Development and Community Development, Henry County Development Authority, existing industrial property owners, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) for workforce programs. 4.1.8.3 Funding Sources Local SPLOST or general fund for site inventory and signage, Georgia DCA Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or Economic Development grants, U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Public Works grants, Georgia Department of Labor workforce training funds, private developer contributions via performance agreements. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 11 4.2 Area B – Rock Quarry Road, Southern Portion 4.2.1. Executive Summary Area B along the southern portion of Rock Quarry Road is a predominantly residential neighborhood characterized by Multi-Family Residential (MFR) zoning (60.47%) and Suburban Residential (SR) zoning (7.89%). The area features aging housing stock, limited housing diversity, and sparse pedestrian connectivity to parks and commercial nodes. With notable cost-burdened households and younger median ages in some tracts, the primary planning focus is Housing Strategies. The plan envisions a stable, diverse residential neighborhood that capitalizes on its existing zoning to provide a range of housing choices for working families and seniors through rehabilitation, infill, and improved walkability while supporting broader city housing supply goals. 4.2.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Focused planning is needed in Area B due to extensive aging multi-family and suburban residential development showing signs of deferred maintenance, which threatens neighborhood stability and property values. Additional challenges include limited housing type diversity under current zoning, affordability pressures, gaps in sidewalk infrastructure, and inconsistent rental property oversight. Opportunities exist for strategic infill, home repair programs, density bonuses, and pedestrian improvements, especially with planned Rock Quarry Road extensions. This plan advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use elements by promoting preservation, rehabilitation, and increased housing choices while enhancing walkability and neighborhood quality of life. 4.2.3. Study Area Description 4.2.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area B encompasses 589 parcels totaling 572.0 acres along the southern portion of Rock Quarry Road. As shown in Appendix 5.2, Map 1, the study area is positioned as a predominantly residential neighborhood within the City of Stockbridge, with curvilinear subdivision streets and limited commercial nodes serving the surrounding multi-family and suburban residential development. 4.2.3.2 Existing Conditions Appendix 5.1, Figure 1 reveals the following zoning district distribution: 60.47% for MFR, 19.54% for C2, 7.89% for SR, 7.26% for C3, 3.74% for OI, and 1.09% for C1. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups ranging from 37.0% to 40.2% across relevant census tracts. Predominant housing occupancy figures are 1743 in Census Tract 13151070114 and 857 in Census Tract 13151070120. Cost-burdened population percentages are 54.52% in Census Tract 13151070114 and 22.04% in Census Tract 13151070120. Birth rates among women aged 15-50 in the past 12 months are 1.4% and 6.5% respectively. Median ages are 28.4 and 36.7 years. Poverty rates are 9.3% and 3.4%. Land use patterns, built A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 12 environment, and environmental features remain as documented in the research materials. 4.2.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit, bike infrastructure) includes Rock Quarry Road, which forms the western and northern boundary of the study area and carries predominant multi-family residential (brown) zoning along much of its frontage interspersed with suburban residential (yellow) pockets. This alignment positions the road as the central residential spine, poised for future extensions that could unlock higher-density infill and stronger pedestrian linkages. Aerial imagery reveals tightly packed multi-family buildings hugging the eastern side, with winding subdivision streets fanning outward into wooded pockets and nearby parks. Miller Rd weaves through the central and eastern zones, where suburban residential (yellow) zoning frames both sides alongside occasional multi-family clusters, marking it as a meandering local collector that stitches the curvilinear neighborhood fabric together. Oakland Blvd cuts across the eastern section under prevailing suburban residential (yellow) zoning, acting as an intimate neighborhood thoroughfare dotted with modest commercial nodes that serve the surrounding homes. Stephens Av hugs the southern perimeter, bordered by suburban residential (yellow) zoning, functioning as a quiet boundary street whose sidewalks remain patchy and rarely reach parks or shops. Sidewalks appear only sporadically across the area and seldom bridge residential pockets to parks or commercial hubs. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.2.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include the Housing Goal to provide variety of housing choices for changing needs and lifestyles (Chapter 4, p. 43), policies for preserving/enhancing older neighborhoods through rehabilitation and infill, Action items LU.6 (Housing Study) and LU.7 (Downtown Residential Analysis update), and Future Land Use support for density increases where infrastructure allows and mixed-use infill. Alignment Explanation: This study area directly implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use elements by focusing on preservation, infill, and diversity within the predominant MFR and SR zoning. Actions such as density bonuses, home repair programs, and pedestrian improvements advance the Plan’s call for neighborhood stability, affordability monitoring, and walkable residential environments while supporting the broader goal of adding 800+ housing units in the near term. The framework ensures residential growth complements the City’s transportation investments along Rock Quarry Road. 4.2.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Aging housing stock and maintenance needs in SR/MFR areas. Extensive multi-family and suburban residential development shows signs of deferred maintenance that affects neighborhood stability and property values. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • • 13 Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Complete neighborhood housing condition assessment and resident survey; launch home repair and weatherization program. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Roll out first-time homebuyer assistance program. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop larger MFR sites into mixed-income townhome and apartment communities. Potential Partners: City Community Development Department, nonprofit housing providers. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA HOME and Housing Trust Fund, HUD CDBG, local SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited housing diversity and affordability pressures. Predominant MFR and SR zoning limits options for smaller households and workforce housing. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Update subdivision regulations for smaller-lot infill in SR zones. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop Affordable Housing Action Plan with density bonus incentives; construct 50–75 new workforce housing units. o Long-Term (5+ years): Expand multi-family zoning along Rock Quarry Road with pedestrian connections. Potential Partners: ARC Housing programs, local developers. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA Community Development Block Grant, HUD funds. Issue/Opportunity 3: Sparse sidewalks and poor connectivity to parks and commercial nodes. Sidewalks are limited and do not link residential areas to amenities. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install sidewalk and streetlight improvements along key residential collectors. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Create neighborhood-scale pocket park network. o Long-Term (5+ years): Develop linear greenway connections. Potential Partners: City Public Works Department. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, GDOT TAP. Issue/Opportunity 4: Rental property management and code enforcement gaps. High percentage of rental units in MFR districts requires stronger oversight. • Priority Actions: A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • 14 o Short-Term (0–2 years): Create rental licensing and property maintenance code enforcement pilot. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Implement design guidelines for new construction. o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish ongoing monitoring program. Potential Partners: City Code Enforcement, property owners. Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund. Issue/Opportunity 5: Opportunity for transit-oriented infill near future Rock Quarry extensions. Road widening and extensions will improve access, enabling higher-density residential redevelopment. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Complete assessment. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Partner on new units. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop sites. Potential Partners: GDOT, ARC. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA grants, private development. 4.2.6. Vision & Planning Framework The Rock Quarry Road Southern Portion will become a stable, diverse residential neighborhood that capitalizes on its 60% MultiFamily Residential and 8% Suburban Residential zoning to offer a range of housing choices for working families and seniors. Curvilinear subdivision streets and limited commercial nodes will be enhanced with improved walkability, pocket parks, and infill that respects the suburban character while increasing housing supply and affordability along this established corridor. 4.2.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale: The map shows predominant MFR – Multiple Family Residential (brown) and SR – Suburban Residential (yellow) zoning across the southern portion, with only limited C3 commercial pockets. This residential-heavy pattern makes housing strategies the highest-impact focus—addressing density, housing type diversity, affordability, and future growth in an established suburban neighborhood along Rock Quarry Road. Key Indicators Observed: Extensive Multi-Family and Suburban Residential districts, curvilinear subdivision street patterns typical of residential development, smaller commercial nodes serving the housing areas. Alternative Category: Land Use (useful for fine-tuning but less impactful than targeted housing policy in a predominantly residential area). 4.2.8. Implementation Strategy 4.3.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Complete neighborhood housing condition assessment and resident survey. Launch a home repair and weatherization program for SR/MFR A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 15 properties. Update subdivision regulations for smaller-lot infill in SR zones. Create a rental licensing and property maintenance code enforcement pilot. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop an Affordable Housing Action Plan with density bonus incentives. Construct or partner on 50–75 new workforce housing units on underutilized MFR parcels. Install sidewalk and streetlight improvements along key residential collectors. Roll out a first-time homebuyer assistance program. Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop larger MFR sites into mixed-income townhome and apartment communities. Expand multi-family zoning along Rock Quarry Road with pedestrian connections. Create a neighborhood-scale pocket park network. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Amend HI district text to add “light industrial” and “flex” uses as permitted (with performance standards for noise, odor, and truck traffic). Create a Rock Quarry Industrial Corridor Overlay requiring 50-ft vegetative buffers where abutting residential. Offer density/intensity bonuses for projects providing public access easements or green infrastructure. Expedited permitting track for projects creating 20+ jobs. 4.2.8.2 Potential Partners City of Stockbridge Economic Development and Community Development Departments, Henry County Development Authority, existing industrial property owners, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) for workforce programs. 4.2.8.3 Funding Sources Local SPLOST or general fund for site inventory and signage, Georgia DCA Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or Economic Development grants, U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) Public Works grants, Georgia Department of Labor workforce training funds, private developer contributions via performance agreements. 4.3 Area C – Highway 138 West 4.3.1. Executive Summary Area C encompasses the western segment of Highway 138, a heavily commercial corridor dominated by Heavy Commercial (C3) zoning (43.32%) with supporting Planned Unit Development and residential areas. The current auto-oriented strip development pattern features visual clutter, traffic congestion at key intersections, and limited pedestrian infrastructure. The primary planning focus is Economic Development. This plan seeks to transform the corridor into a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented commercial gateway with unified design standards, landscaped medians, and strategic mixed-use nodes that improve business viability while enhancing multimodal connectivity. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 16 4.3.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This corridor requires dedicated planning attention because its dominant Heavy Commercial zoning has resulted in fragmented, autooriented strip development that creates visual clutter, traffic delays, and reduced economic vitality. Key challenges include insufficient pedestrian facilities, excessive parking requirements, and a lack of cohesive corridor identity. Opportunities lie in shifting toward quality design, mixed-use redevelopment at key nodes, and completestreet improvements. The plan directly implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land Use, Economic Development, and Transportation goals by creating a more attractive and functional gateway that supports business growth and improves quality of life along this major arterial. 4.3.3. Study Area Description 4.3.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area C encompasses 358 parcels totaling 425.0 acres along the western segment of Highway 138 and its intersecting parkways. As shown in Appendix 5.3, Map 1, the study area is positioned as a major commercial corridor and gateway within the City of Stockbridge, featuring heavy commercial frontage with supporting planned unit development and residential areas. 4.3.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area C is dominated by heavy commercial activity along the Highway 138 corridor, with supporting planned unit development and scattered residential pockets. Appendix 5.3, Figure 1 reveals that area’s zoning distribution reflects this intensity, with Heavy Commercial (C3) districts covering 43.32% of the area, followed by Planned Unit Development at 21.29% and smaller shares of Suburban Residential, Multi-Family Residential, and other categories. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 reveal varied conditions across the study area’s census tracts. Dependent age groups (under 18 and 65+) range from 25.3% to 47.7%, with several tracts showing notably high proportions of children and seniors, suggesting a population with significant family and elder care needs that could benefit from improved local services and walkable access along the corridor. Housing occupancy leans toward owner-occupied in most tracts (55.89%–76.49%), though one tract shows strong renter occupancy at 78.67%, indicating a mix of stable homeowners and more transient renter households typical of commercial corridor edges. Cost-burdened household rates vary widely from 27.94% to as high as 69.29%, highlighting pockets of severe affordability pressure that may limit residents’ ability to access nearby commercial amenities or contribute to local economic vitality. Birth rates among women aged 15-50 are generally low to moderate (0.0%–8.9%), while median ages span from 30.9 to 52.4 years, pointing to a blend of younger working-age residents and older established households. Poverty rates range from 4.8% to 30.6%, with higher concentrations in certain tracts that align with elevated cost-burden levels. Overall, the maps portray a corridor serving a socioeconomically diverse population where A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 17 commercial redevelopment must address affordability challenges and support multigenerational needs to enhance neighborhood stability and economic performance. 4.3.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit, bike infrastructure) features Highway 138 West, also designated State Route 138, slicing straight through the study area as its dominant arterial. Heavy commercial (red) zoning blankets the highway frontage, supported by planned unit development and suburban residential zones behind it, painting the corridor as a textbook auto-oriented commercial artery burdened by intersection delays yet primed for median plantings and full complete-street retrofits. Aerial imagery captures broad highway frontage lined with sizable commercial parcels, sprawling parking fields, and patches of vacant land. Mt Zion Pkwy crosses the study area at prominent nodes where heavy commercial (red) zoning clusters at the junctions amid residential transitions, marking it as a vital gateway route that would gain from coordinated wayfinding, pedestrian islands, and completestreet upgrades. Reeves Creek Way emerges in the northern reach with mixed commercial and residential zoning, serving as a modest local connector tucked behind the main commercial strip. Sidewalks remain patchy and rarely tie residential neighborhoods to parks or shops. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.3.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include Future Land Use policies discouraging strip development and encouraging “sense of place” along major commercial corridors (Chapter 4, p. 44), the Economic Development Goal and policies for reinvestment and quality commercial development (Chapter 4, p. 42), and Transportation actions for complete streets and corridor improvements on Hwy 138 (T.8). Alignment Explanation: The vision and actions reinforce the Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land Use and Economic Development chapters by shifting the C3-heavy corridor from auto-oriented strip to a designed, mixeduse gateway consistent with medium-density mixed-use designations around major intersections. Corridor overlay standards and pedestrian enhancements directly support the Plan’s call for rational commercial nodes, quality design, and multi-modal connectivity, advancing both economic vitality and transportation goals. 4.3.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Auto-oriented strip development and visual clutter in C3 areas. Heavy Commercial zoning dominates highway frontage but lacks cohesive design and landscaping. • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Prepare Corridor Improvement Plan and install unified wayfinding/gateway signage; launch façade improvement matching grant. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • 18 o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop design guidelines for new C3 construction and construct median landscaping. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop underutilized C3 parcels into mixeduse nodes. Potential Partners: City Economic Development and Public Works, local property owners. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT TAP, SPLOST, Georgia DCA Revitalization Grants. Issue/Opportunity 2: Traffic congestion at key intersections. Major intersections experience peak-hour delays affecting commercial viability. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Conduct traffic signal timing study. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Construct pedestrian refuge islands. o Long-Term (5+ years): Reconfigure segments into complete-street sections with bike lanes. Potential Partners: GDOT District 3, ARC Transportation. Potential Funding Sources: FHWA grants via GDOT, SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 3: Insufficient pedestrian and shared parking infrastructure. Limited sidewalks and excessive parking minimums discourage walkability. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install high-visibility crosswalks. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop shared parking standards and district parking plan. o Long-Term (5+ years): Establish Business Improvement District. Potential Partners: City Public Works, business owners. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Local Maintenance grants, private contributions. Issue/Opportunity 4: Opportunity to introduce mixed-use in PUD and select C3 sites. PUD areas (21%) provide flexibility for residential-over-commercial development. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Stakeholder workshops. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Rezone select sites. o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement overlay standards. Potential Partners: City Community Development. Potential Funding Sources: ARC Livable Communities grants. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 19 Issue/Opportunity 5: Lack of unified corridor identity. Multiple jurisdictions and ownerships create fragmented appearance. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Façade grants. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Landscaping standards. o Long-Term (5+ years): BID formation. Potential Partners: Local commercial owners. Potential Funding Sources: Private matching funds. 4.3.6. Vision & Planning Framework Highway 138 West and its intersecting parkways will transform into a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented heavy commercial corridor anchored by the 43% C3 zoning. Unified design standards, landscaped medians, and mixed-use nodes will create a high-quality gateway that supports business growth, reduces autooriented sprawl, and provides upper-story residential opportunities while maintaining efficient traffic flow. 4.3.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Economic Development. Rationale: Large contiguous areas of C3 – Heavy Commercial District (red) dominate the map, especially along the major roadways, with supporting PUD and SR zoning. The corridor’s commercial intensity and strategic highway location make economic development the primary focus for business retention, corridor revitalization, and leveraging the 2026 zoning for investment. Key Indicators Observed: Extensive Heavy Commercial zoning along highway frontage, mix with Planned Unit Development areas, key intersections and parkway access points. Alternative Category: Transportation & Mobility (relevant for access management but secondary to the clear commercial economic opportunity). 4.3.8. Implementation Strategy 4.3.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Prepare a Corridor Improvement Plan with property-owner input. Install unified wayfinding and gateway signage at key intersections. Launch a storefront façade improvement matching grant program. Conduct traffic signal timing study at Mount Zion and Lake Spivey intersections. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct median landscaping and pedestrian refuge islands along Hwy 138. Develop shared parking standards and a district parking management plan. Roll out design guidelines for new C3 construction. Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop key underutilized C3 parcels into mixed-use nodes with upper-story residential. Reconfigure portions of the corridor into a complete-street section with bike lanes. Establish a Business Improvement District (BID) for ongoing A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 20 maintenance. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Create a Highway 138 Commercial Corridor Overlay requiring building frontage within 30 ft of the right-of-way and reduced parking minimums. Rezone select large C3 sites to allow mixed-use (add residential as conditional use). Text amendment for unified sign standards and landscaping requirements. Fast-track permitting for projects meeting overlay design criteria. 4.3.8.2 Potential Partners City Economic Development, Community Development, and Public Works Departments, GDOT District 3, local commercial property owners, Atlanta Regional Commission Transportation Committee. 4.3.8.3 Funding Sources GDOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and Local Maintenance & Improvement Grants, SPLOST for corridor improvements, Georgia DCA Revitalization Grants, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) grants via GDOT, private business contributions via façade program. 4.4 Area D – Davidson Parkway 4.4.1. Executive Summary Area D along Davidson Parkway is a transitional mixed-use corridor marked by jurisdictional fragmentation between Stockbridge and Clayton County, featuring a heterogeneous mix of Planned Unit Development (44.68%), MultiFamily Residential, and commercial zoning. Inconsistent standards and limited multimodal connectivity create compatibility challenges. The primary planning focus is Land Use. The plan envisions Davidson Parkway as a unified, coordinated mixed-use corridor with seamless land-use transitions, shared infrastructure, and gateway features that support orderly growth and potential future annexation. 4.4.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Planning attention is essential for Area D due to the jurisdictional boundary that creates fragmented zoning standards, review processes, and development compatibility issues along the parkway. Challenges include inconsistent land-use regulations, missing multi-modal connections, and underutilized parcels at the county line. Opportunities exist for coordinated master planning, mixeduse overlays, and improved connectivity. This plan advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land Use goals by promoting inter-jurisdictional coordination, rational development patterns, and enhanced sense of place along this important connector. 4.4.3. Study Area Description 4.4.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area D encompasses 285 parcels totaling 236.0 acres along Davidson Parkway. As shown in Appendix 5.4, Map 1, the study area is positioned as a transitional mixed-use corridor at the jurisdictional boundary between Stockbridge A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 21 and Clayton County, featuring a heterogeneous mix of planned unit development, multifamily residential, and commercial zoning. 4.4.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area D reflects a transitional corridor with a heterogeneous mix of planned unit development, multi-family residential, light industrial, and commercial uses. Appendix 5.4, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is diverse, led by Planned Unit Development at 44.68%, followed by Multi-Family Residential (19.96%), Light Industrial (14.01%), and smaller commercial and rural residential components. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 illustrate notable variation across the study area’s census tracts. Dependent age groups range from 30.5% to 40.2%, indicating a meaningful share of children and seniors who would benefit from improved connectivity and compatible land-use transitions. Housing occupancy shows a split, with owneroccupied units at 42.3% in one tract and renter-occupied at 53.77% in another, reflecting the mixed residential character typical of jurisdictional boundary zones. Costburdened rates are elevated at 41.26% and 47.31%, suggesting affordability pressures that could be exacerbated by uncoordinated development. Birth rates vary from 6.2% to 13.0%, while median ages range from 30.2 to 38.9 years, pointing to a relatively young to middle-aged population with family-forming potential. Poverty reaches 36.5% in one tract, highlighting economic vulnerability in parts of the area. Collectively, the maps portray a corridor with diverse demographic needs where jurisdictional coordination is critical to balance residential stability, employment opportunities, and orderly growth. 4.4.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit, bike infrastructure) centers on Davidson Pkwy, which cuts through the study area’s core as the principal corridor. Planned unit development (green) and multi-family residential zoning occupy the Stockbridge side while Clayton County general business (hatched) zoning sits opposite, highlighting the roadway’s role as a jurisdictional hinge that demands joint master planning, mixed-use overlays, and shared infrastructure for smooth compatibility. Aerial imagery contrasts curvilinear residential subdivisions on the east with larger commercial and industrial parcels to the west, accented by tree cover and open land at the dividing line. State Route 138 borders the western edge, carrying mixed commercial and residential zoning along the boundary and serving as a regional gateway that could accommodate enhanced signage and cross-jurisdictional coordination. Sidewalks are limited and seldom connect residential areas to parks or commercial destinations. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.4.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include the Future Land Use Goal to establish land-use designations consistent with UDC and encourage mixed-use (Chapter 4, p. 44), policies supporting inter- A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 22 jurisdictional coordination and rational commercial nodes, and Action items LU.2, LU.5 (LCI implementation and updates). Alignment Explanation: The Davidson Parkway study advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land Use chapter by addressing cross-jurisdictional compatibility and promoting mixed-use transitions in a heterogeneous zoning environment. The MOU, overlay district, and joint master plan directly implement the Plan’s emphasis on orderly development, infill, and quality design while supporting regional coordination through ARC. This framework ensures the corridor contributes to the City’s vision of balanced growth and sense of place. 4.4.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Jurisdictional fragmentation and inconsistent zoning standards. Portions fall under Clayton County General Business zoning, creating review and compatibility challenges. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Establish joint City-County working group and complete unified land-use inventory. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop joint corridor master plan and implement coordinated signage. o Long-Term (5+ years): Pursue annexation of mutually beneficial parcels. Potential Partners: Stockbridge and Clayton County Community Development Departments, ARC. Potential Funding Sources: ARC Local Government Assistance grants, Georgia DCA Efficiency Grants. Issue/Opportunity 2: Transitional land-use compatibility along the parkway. Mix of commercial, planned unit, and residential zoning requires better buffering and transitions. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Host stakeholder workshops. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Pilot shared infrastructure district. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop transitional parcels into unified mixeduse nodes. Potential Partners: Property owners, both counties. Potential Funding Sources: Federal planning grants (HUD/FHWA). Issue/Opportunity 3: Limited multi-modal connectivity. Parkway lacks continuous sidewalks or trails linking jurisdictions. • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Inventory gaps. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • 23 o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Construct pathway segments. o Long-Term (5+ years): Build full multi-modal pathway. Potential Partners: City Public Works. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, GDOT TAP. Issue/Opportunity 4: Underutilized parcels at jurisdictional boundary. Vacant or lowintensity sites present redevelopment potential. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): MOU for consistent standards. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Create Mixed-Use Overlay. o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement overlay on both sides. Potential Partners: ARC. Potential Funding Sources: Joint funding mechanisms. Issue/Opportunity 5: Opportunity for gateway improvements. Current entry points lack identity. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Coordinated signage. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Landscaping. o Long-Term (5+ years): Mixed-use redevelopment. Potential Partners: Property owners. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST. 4.4.6. Vision & Planning Framework Davidson Parkway will function as a unified, jurisdictionally coordinated mixed-use corridor that resolves the current patchwork of PUD, MFR, and Clayton County General Business zoning. A seamless transition of land uses, shared infrastructure, and gateway features will create a stable employmentresidential edge that supports orderly growth and potential future annexation while enhancing connectivity between the two jurisdictions. 4.4.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Land Use. Rationale: The map displays a heterogeneous mix of C3, General Business (noted as under Clayton County jurisdiction), PUD, MFR, and other districts, with an explicit jurisdictional boundary note. This complexity makes land-use coordination, compatibility, and potential annexation the highest-impact study focus for this transitional area. Key Indicators Observed: Mixed commercial, planned, and residential zoning, specific note on Clayton County “General Business” jurisdiction, Davidson Parkway as a connector between jurisdictions. Alternative Category: Economic Development (viable but less urgent than resolving the mixed zoning and jurisdictional issues first). 4.4.8. Implementation Strategy A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 24 4.4.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Establish a joint City-County working group on Davidson Parkway corridor. Complete a unified land-use and zoning inventory map. Host stakeholder workshops with property owners in both jurisdictions. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop a joint corridor master plan covering both jurisdictions. Implement coordinated signage and gateway improvements. Pilot a shared infrastructure improvement district. Long-Term (5+ Years): Pursue annexation of Clayton County parcels where mutually beneficial. Redevelop transitional parcels into unified mixed-use nodes. Construct continuous multi-modal pathway along Davidson Parkway. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Adopt an inter-jurisdictional Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for consistent review standards. Create a Davidson Parkway Mixed-Use Overlay (applicable on both sides) allowing compatible commercial/residential transitions. Text amendment to align parking and buffering standards between jurisdictions. 4.4.8.2 Potential Partners Stockbridge and Clayton County Community Development Departments, Henry County and Clayton County Commissions, Atlanta Regional Commission, property owners along Davidson Parkway. 4.4.8.3 Funding Sources ARC Local Government Assistance grants, joint SPLOST or special district funding, Georgia DCA Local Government Efficiency Grants, federal planning grants (FHWA or HUD) for cross-jurisdictional studies. 4.5 Area E – North Henry Boulevard / Highway 42 (Northern Segment) 4.5.1. Executive Summary The northern segment of North Henry Boulevard/Highway 42 is an auto-oriented commercial corridor dominated by Heavy Commercial (C3) zoning (30.94%) with supporting Suburban Residential and Rural Residential areas. Fragmented driveway access, missing pedestrian infrastructure, and traffic conflicts characterize the area. The primary planning focus is Transportation & Mobility. The plan will transform the corridor into a safer, more efficient multimodal arterial through access management, continuous sidewalks, complete-street design, and limited mixed-use redevelopment. 4.5.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This study area needs focused attention because the heavy commercial frontage along the major arterial generates frequent turning movements and safety concerns due to unregulated curb cuts and limited pedestrian facilities. Challenges include fragmented access, missing sidewalks and crosswalks, A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 25 and an auto-dominated streetscape. Opportunities include implementing access management, constructing multimodal infrastructure, and introducing limited mixed-use development. The plan directly supports the Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation element by enhancing safety, connectivity, and multi-modal travel along this key corridor while aligning with Future Land Use policies for rational corridor development. 4.5.3. Study Area Description 4.5.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area E encompasses 128 parcels totaling 201.0 acres along the northern segment of North Henry Boulevard and Highway 42. As shown in Appendix 5.5, Map 1, the study area is positioned as an auto-oriented commercial corridor within the City of Stockbridge, with heavy commercial frontage and residential pockets set back from the arterial. 4.5.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area E features heavy commercial frontage along the Highway 42 corridor with residential areas set back, creating an autooriented strip character. Appendix 5.5, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is led by Heavy Commercial (C3) at 30.94%, supported by Suburban Residential (24.48%), C2 (21.13%), and Rural Residential (18.03%). Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups ranging from 36.0% to 40.2%, indicating a solid base of children and seniors who would benefit from safer pedestrian connections and reduced traffic conflicts. Housing occupancy is primarily owner-occupied (42.3%–73.43%), though renter presence is notable in some tracts. Cost-burdened rates range from 33.21% to 48.08%, signaling moderate to significant affordability pressures that could be alleviated by improved multimodal access to jobs and services. Birth rates vary from 1.0% to 10.1%, while median ages span 28.6 to 36.1 years, reflecting a relatively young working-age population suited to corridor employment and redevelopment opportunities. Poverty levels range from 19.5% to 36.5%, with higher concentrations suggesting economic vulnerability in portions of the area. The maps collectively portray a corridor with a working-age, family-oriented population where transportation safety and access improvements can directly support economic activity and residential quality of life. 4.5.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network (roads, sidewalks, transit, bike infrastructure) is anchored by North Henry Blvd, also identified as Highway 42, which stretches the full length of the study area as its primary arterial. Heavy commercial (red) zoning lines the highway frontage, backed by suburban residential (yellow) and rural residential zones, characterizing the corridor as a typical autooriented strip with fragmented driveway access that is well-suited for raised medians and complete-street redesign. Aerial imagery shows commercial buildings and parking lots pressed directly against the highway, with wooded residential pockets set farther back. Valley Hill Rd appears along the eastern edge under suburban residential zoning, A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 26 acting as a secondary local connector that offers only modest east-west movement behind the commercial strip. Sidewalks are sparse and rarely bridge residential neighborhoods to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.5.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include the Transportation Goal to enhance multi-modal connectivity and roadway safety (Chapter 4, p. 52), policies for complete streets and access management on major arterials, and Action items T.1, T.8, T.9 (traffic plans, sidewalk plan, bicycle/pedestrian plan). Alignment Explanation: This small area study implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation element by applying access management and complete-street standards along the C3-dominated Highway 42 corridor. Actions such as median installations, sidewalk construction, and overlay standards directly support the Plan’s calls for improved pedestrian connectivity, traffic safety, and multi-modal facilities on key arterials, while limited mixed-use rezoning aligns with Future Land Use policies for rational corridor development. 4.5.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Fragmented driveway access and traffic conflicts in C3 frontage. Heavy Commercial zoning lines the highway with numerous unregulated curb cuts. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install raised medians and turn-lane improvements; launch driveway consolidation study. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Adopt corridor-specific access management ordinance. o Long-Term (5+ years): Reconfigure segments into boulevard with dedicated bike lanes. Potential Partners: City Public Works, GDOT District 3. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT HSIP, CMAQ funds, SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 2: Missing pedestrian infrastructure. Limited sidewalks and crosswalks create safety gaps. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Add high-visibility crosswalks and pedestrian signals. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Construct continuous sidewalk and multi-use trail. o Long-Term (5+ years): Add signalized intersections where gaps exist. Potential Partners: ARC Transportation Division, local businesses. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Safe Routes to School, SPLOST. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 27 Issue/Opportunity 3: Opportunity to introduce limited mixed-use. C3 frontage with residential behind offers potential for residential-over-commercial. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Voluntary access management program. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Rezone limited frontage. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop large parcels with buildings pulled to street. Potential Partners: City Community Development. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA grants. Issue/Opportunity 4: Streetscape and traffic calming deficiencies. Auto-oriented character lacks amenities. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Traffic calming measures. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Streetscape enhancements. o Long-Term (5+ years): Transit stop integration. Potential Partners: Local business owners. Potential Funding Sources: FHWA grants. Issue/Opportunity 5: Parking management and shared-use potential. Excessive surface parking reduces developable area. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Study. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Shared parking standards. o Long-Term (5+ years): Structured parking in redevelopment. Potential Partners: Property owners. Potential Funding Sources: Private contributions. 4.5.6. Vision & Planning Framework The northern segment of North Henry Boulevard/Highway 42 will become a safer, more efficient multimodal arterial corridor where Heavy Commercial zoning is supported by consolidated access, continuous sidewalks, and complete-street design. Auto-oriented strip patterns will evolve into organized commercial nodes with improved pedestrian and bicycle connections to adjacent residential pockets, enhancing safety and economic activity. 4.5.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Transportation & Mobility. Rationale: Heavy C3 – Heavy Commercial District zoning lines the Highway 42 / North Henry Boulevard corridor, with residential areas set back. The auto-oriented strip pattern and major arterial location make transportation and mobility the primary focus—addressing access management, traffic flow, and multimodal connections that directly support the A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 28 commercial zoning. Key Indicators Observed: Heavy Commercial zoning concentrated along the highway, auto-oriented development form with limited cross streets, residential pockets behind the commercial frontage. Alternative Category: Economic Development (important, but mobility improvements would unlock greater near-term implementation impact). 4.5.8. Implementation Strategy 4.5.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Install raised medians and turn-lane improvements at key commercial driveways. Launch a driveway consolidation study and voluntary access management program. Add high-visibility crosswalks and pedestrian signals at major intersections. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct continuous sidewalk and multi-use trail along the corridor. Implement traffic calming measures and streetscape enhancements. Develop a corridor-specific access management ordinance. Long-Term (5+ Years): Reconfigure select segments into a boulevard with dedicated bike lanes and transit stops. Redevelop large C3 parcels with buildings pulled to the street and shared parking. Add signalized intersections where connectivity gaps exist. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Adopt a North Henry Boulevard Access Management Overlay reducing driveway spacing and requiring cross-access easements. Rezone limited C3 frontage to allow mixed-use with residential above. Text amendment lowering parking requirements for commercial uses within ¼ mile of future transit. 4.5.8.2 Potential Partners City Public Works and Community Development Departments, GDOT District 3, local business owners along Hwy 42, ARC Transportation Planning Division. 4.5.8.3 Funding Sources GDOT Safe Routes to School and Transportation Alternatives grants, SPLOST for sidewalk and streetscape projects, Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds, Georgia DCA Community Development grants. 4.6 Area F – East Atlanta Road, Southern Section 4.6.1. Executive Summary Area F along the southern section of East Atlanta Road is an established suburban residential neighborhood dominated by Suburban Residential (SR 39.15%) and Planned Unit Development (PUD 17.83%) zoning, with proximity to Clarks and Barber Parks. Limited housing variety, incomplete sidewalk connections, and pressure for incompatible redevelopment are key concerns. The primary planning focus A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 29 is Housing Strategies. The vision is for a high-quality suburban neighborhood strengthened by conservation overlays, targeted infill, diverse housing options, and enhanced park connectivity that preserves character while meeting evolving resident needs. 4.6.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Focused planning is warranted in Area F to address pressures for incompatible redevelopment in established SR and PUD areas and to capitalize on the asset of park adjacency. Challenges include limited housing diversity, missing sidewalk links to parks and schools, and underutilized opportunities for accessory dwelling units and cottage courts. Opportunities exist for neighborhood conservation standards, age-restricted and workforce housing, and improved walkability. This plan implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Transportation policies by promoting infill that respects neighborhood character, enhancing connectivity, and contributing to citywide housing goals. 4.6.3. Study Area Description 4.6.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area F encompasses 308 parcels totaling 529.0 acres along the southern section of East Atlanta Road. As shown in Appendix 5.6, Map 1, the study area is positioned as an established suburban residential neighborhood within the City of Stockbridge, featuring proximity to Clarks and Barber Parks and a mix of suburban and planned unit development zoning. 4.6.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area F consists of established suburban residential development with supporting rural residential, downtown, and limited commercial pockets, anchored by proximity to local parks. Appendix 5.6, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is predominantly Suburban Residential (39.15%) and Planned Unit Development (17.83%), with additional Rural Residential (20.42%) and smaller multifamily and commercial components. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 indicate dependent age groups at 36.0% and 39.6%, reflecting a balanced population with notable numbers of children and seniors who would benefit from enhanced park connectivity and safe walking routes. Housing occupancy is strongly owner-occupied (62.26% and 78.6%), suggesting stable neighborhoods where preservation and targeted infill are appropriate. Cost-burdened rates of 40.0% to 48.08% point to moderate affordability pressures that could be addressed through housing diversity and maintenance incentives. Birth rates range from 1.0% to 4.1%, while median ages of 36.1 and 39.4 years indicate a middle-aged, familyoriented demographic. Poverty levels are 8.3% and 25.2%, with variation that aligns with cost-burden trends. The maps portray a relatively stable suburban area with ownerheavy housing stock and family/senior needs, where park-adjacent improvements and conservation strategies can strengthen community character and quality of life. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 30 4.6.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation infrastructure for Area F centers on East Atlanta Rd, which establishes the western boundary. Suburban residential (yellow) and planned unit development (green) zoning run along the frontage beside parkland, positioning the road as the main residential collector whose incomplete sidewalks to Clarks and Barber Parks create clear opportunities for conservation overlays and better connectivity. Aerial imagery vividly displays curvilinear subdivisions spreading east of the road, dense single-family housing, and immediate park adjacency. Bryant St cuts through the northern section, bordered by suburban residential (yellow) and planned unit development (green) zoning, functioning as a local grid street inside the established suburban neighborhood that could support expanded sidewalk links and park access. Oakland Blvd extends through the eastern section under prevailing suburban residential (yellow) zoning, serving as an internal neighborhood street with strong potential for conservation overlays and improved park connections. Sidewalks appear only sporadically and seldom connect residential areas to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.6.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include housing policies for variety of choices, neighborhood preservation, and infill (Chapter 4, p. 43), Future Land Use support for density where design and infrastructure allow, and Transportation actions for sidewalk and trail connectivity (T.9). Alignment Explanation: The study area advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use goals by promoting infill, conservation overlays, and housing diversity within the dominant SR/PUD framework. Park connectivity and walkability improvements implement the Plan’s multi-modal transportation policies, ensuring residential growth enhances rather than erodes neighborhood character while contributing to city-wide housing supply targets. 4.6.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Need for neighborhood conservation and infill standards. Established SR and PUD areas face pressure for incompatible redevelopment. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Neighborhood walkability audit and resident survey; expand park programming. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Adopt Residential Infill Overlay and Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop larger PUD sites into higher-density mixed-income neighborhoods. Potential Partners: City Community Development, HOAs. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA HOME, HUD CDBG, SPLOST. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 31 Issue/Opportunity 2: Housing diversity and age-restricted options. Limited variety beyond single-family and existing multi-family. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Voluntary maintenance incentives. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Partner on 40–60 new age-restricted or workforce units. o Long-Term (5+ years): Density bonus for park-adjacent projects. Potential Partners: Nonprofit housing developers. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia Housing Trust Fund, LWCF for parks. Issue/Opportunity 3: Missing sidewalk links and safe routes to schools/parks. Connectivity to Clarks and Barber Parks is incomplete. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Construct missing sidewalk links. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Safe-route-to-school improvements. o Long-Term (5+ years): Create linear parks and greenways. Potential Partners: City Public Works. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, GDOT TAP. Issue/Opportunity 4: Opportunity for ADUs and cottage courts. Zoning allows but lacks design standards. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Update regulations. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Text amendment for cottage courts. o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement with design review. Potential Partners: Local developers. Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund. Issue/Opportunity 5: Park adjacency and green infrastructure. Proximity to existing parks is an asset but underutilized for connectivity. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Beautification events. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Trail connections. o Long-Term (5+ years): Greenway network. Potential Partners: Parks Department, HOAs. Potential Funding Sources: Federal LWCF. 4.6.6. Vision & Planning Framework East Atlanta Road’s southern section will remain a high-quality suburban residential neighborhood strengthened by its 39% SR and 18% PUD zoning. Targeted infill, neighborhood conservation overlays, and enhanced park A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 32 connections will preserve character while adding diverse housing types, walkable links to Clarks and Barber Parks, and limited neighborhood-scale commercial nodes that serve residents. 4.6.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale: The zoning is overwhelmingly SR – Suburban Residential and PUD – Planned Unit Development, with smaller commercial and MFR pockets. This established residential fabric along East Atlanta Road makes housing strategies the best fit for guiding density, housing diversity, and neighborhood-scale development. Key Indicators Observed: Dominant Suburban Residential and Planned Unit Development zoning, nearby parks (Clarks and Barber Parks) supporting residential character, mix of multi-family and single-family style zoning. Alternative Category: Land Use (supportive but housing policy would deliver more direct implementation value). 4.6.8. Implementation Strategy 4.6.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Neighborhood walkability audit and resident priority survey. Expand park programming and connectivity to adjacent residential areas. Offer voluntary property maintenance and energy-efficiency retrofit incentives. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop a Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District. Construct missing sidewalk links and safe-route-to-school improvements. Partner on 40–60 new age-restricted or workforce housing units in PUD areas. Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop larger PUD sites into higher-density mixed-income neighborhoods. Create a network of linear parks and greenways connecting Clarks and Barber Parks. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Adopt a Residential Infill Overlay for SR/PUD allowing smaller lots and ADUs with design review. Text amendment for cottage court and townhome developments in appropriate locations. Density bonus for projects preserving or enhancing park adjacency. 4.6.8.2 Potential Partners City Community Development and Public Works Departments, local homeowner associations, nonprofit housing developers. 4.6.8.3 Funding Sources Georgia DCA HOME and Housing Trust Fund, HUD CDBG for neighborhood improvements, local SPLOST for parks and sidewalks, Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) for park enhancements. 4.7 Area G – North Henry Boulevard, Central Section 4.7.1. Executive Summary The central section of North Henry Boulevard is a mixed commercial-residential corridor with significant C2 (52.53%) and supporting Multi-Family A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 33 Residential zoning. Underperforming commercial frontage, aging façades, excessive surface parking, and limited vertical mixed-use characterize the area. The primary planning focus is Economic Development. The plan envisions a dynamic mixed-use corridor with enhanced streetscapes, reduced parking ratios, and a new mixed-use overlay that creates walkable nodes blending ground-floor retail, offices, and upperstory residential. 4.7.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This corridor requires targeted planning because current commercial development suffers from vacancies, visual underperformance, and inefficient land use due to parking oversupply and zoning that restricts vertical mixeduse. Challenges include poor pedestrian and transit access and a lack of development incentives. Opportunities exist to introduce façade improvements, mixed-use incentives, and multimodal enhancements along this visible boulevard. The plan advances the Comprehensive Plan’s mixed-use corridor revitalization and Economic Development goals by creating live-work-play environments and supporting economic reinvestment. 4.7.3. Study Area Description 4.7.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area G encompasses 265 parcels totaling 215.0 acres along the central section of North Henry Boulevard. As shown in Appendix 5.7, Map 1, the study area is positioned as a mixed commercial-residential corridor within the City of Stockbridge, with significant commercial frontage and supporting multi-family residential development. 4.7.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area G centers on a mixed commercial-residential corridor along North Henry Boulevard, with prominent commercial frontage and supporting multi-family residential. Appendix 5.7, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is led by C2 at 52.53%, with Multi-Family Residential at 19.26% and smaller office, suburban residential, and commercial components. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 highlight a socioeconomically mixed population. Dependent age groups range from 30.5% to 40.2%, indicating families and seniors who could gain from improved pedestrian access and mixed-use vitality. Housing occupancy is mixed, with renter-occupied units reaching 63.78% in some tracts, suggesting a need for stable rental options alongside owner-occupied stock. Cost-burdened rates are elevated (33.21%–54.52%), pointing to affordability challenges that mixed-use redevelopment and housing incentives could help address. Birth rates vary from 1.0% to 13.0%, while median ages span 28.4 to 38.9 years, reflecting a younger, working-age demographic well-suited to live-work opportunities. Poverty levels range from 5.6% to 25.2%, with higher concentrations in certain tracts. The maps portray a corridor with diverse age and income profiles where economic revitalization through mixed-use development can improve housing options and activate the boulevard for residents and businesses alike. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 34 4.7.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network in Area G is led by North Henry Blvd, which runs through the center as the primary corridor. C2 general commercial (pink) and heavy commercial (red) zoning dominate the frontage while multi-family residential zones provide support, portraying the boulevard as a mixed-use commercial spine plagued by vacancies, aging façades, and abundant surface parking yet offering strong potential for mixed-use overlays, façade grants, and parking reductions. Aerial imagery captures commercial strips, large parking areas, and multifamily buildings directly along the boulevard with residential neighborhoods set behind. Miller Rd borders the eastern edge, flanked by commercial and multi-family residential zoning, operating as a local connector that currently delivers only limited pedestrian and transit access to the boulevard. Sidewalks remain patchy and rarely link residential sections to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.7.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include Future Land Use policies encouraging mixed-use development and sense of place on corridors (Chapter 4, p. 44), Economic Development policies for reinvestment and quality commercial development (Chapter 4, p. 42), and Transportation policies for multi-modal connectivity. Alignment Explanation: This study directly implements the Comprehensive Plan’s mixed-use and corridor revitalization strategies by introducing a Mixed-Use Overlay along the C2/C3 frontage of North Henry Boulevard. Façade grants, parking reductions, and residential incentives align with the Plan’s goals for live-workplay environments and economic reinvestment while advancing pedestrian and bicycle connectivity objectives. 4.7.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Underperforming commercial frontage in C2/C3 zones. Vacancies and aging façades along the boulevard limit economic activity. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Business vacancy and market analysis; façade and landscaping improvement grants. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop Mixed-Use Development Incentive Program. o Long-Term (5+ years): Transform underutilized strips into vibrant mixeduse districts. Potential Partners: City Economic Development, local landlords. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA Economic Development grants, ARC Livable Communities. Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited residential integration above commercial. Zoning restricts vertical mixed-use. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • • 35 Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install pedestrian-scale lighting. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Rezone select parcels and create North Henry Mixed-Use Overlay. o Long-Term (5+ years): Extend multi-modal connections. Potential Partners: City Community Development, developers. Potential Funding Sources: TAD or SPLOST, private equity. Issue/Opportunity 3: Parking oversupply and lack of shared options. Excessive surface parking reduces developable land. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Street furniture at key nodes. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Reduce minimum parking ratios. o Long-Term (5+ years): Require structured/shared parking. Potential Partners: Property owners. Potential Funding Sources: Private contributions. Issue/Opportunity 4: Pedestrian and transit access gaps. High visibility but poor multimodal links. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Gateway features. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Enhanced transit stops. o Long-Term (5+ years): Complete multi-modal network. Potential Partners: GDOT, ARC. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT grants. Issue/Opportunity 5: Opportunity for expedited mixed-use permitting. Incentive structure is missing. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Analysis. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Expedited review for 30% residential component. o Long-Term (5+ years): Full district transformation. Potential Partners: Henry County Chamber. Potential Funding Sources: Opportunity Zone incentives (if applicable). 4.7.6. Vision & Planning Framework North Henry Boulevard’s central section will become a dynamic mixed-use corridor leveraging its 52% C2 and supporting MFR zoning to blend commercial vitality with upper-story residential. Enhanced streetscapes, reduced parking ratios, and a new mixed-use overlay will create walkable nodes with A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 36 ground-floor retail, offices, and housing that activate the boulevard while buffering adjacent neighborhoods. 4.7.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Economic Development. Rationale: Significant C3 – Heavy Commercial and MFR zoning front North Henry Boulevard in the central section, creating a mixed commercial-residential corridor. Economic development is the highest-impact focus for revitalizing commercial uses, incentivizing mixed-use infill, and capitalizing on the boulevard’s visibility and traffic. Key Indicators Observed: Heavy Commercial zoning along the boulevard, adjacent Multi-Family Residential support, central corridor location with high visibility. Alternative Category: Transportation & Mobility (valuable for access but secondary to economic activation of the zoned commercial areas). 4.7.8. Implementation Strategy 4.7.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Business vacancy and market analysis along central North Henry Boulevard. Façade and landscaping improvement grants for C3 properties. Install pedestrian-scale lighting and street furniture at key nodes. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Develop a Mixed-Use Development Incentive Program. Construct gateway features and enhanced transit stops. Rezone select C3 parcels to support ground-floor commercial with residential above. Long-Term (5+ Years): Transform underutilized commercial strips into vibrant mixed-use districts. Extend multi-modal connections to adjacent residential neighborhoods. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Create a North Henry Mixed-Use Overlay allowing residential uses above commercial in C3 zones. Reduce minimum parking ratios and require structured/shared parking. Offer expedited review and fee waivers for projects meeting 30% residential component. 4.7.8.2 Potential Partners City Economic Development and Community Development Departments, local commercial landlords and developers, ARC Economic Development Committee, Henry County Chamber of Commerce, Stockbridge Main Street Program and Downtown Development Authority (for eastward parcels). 4.7.8.3 Funding Sources Georgia DCA Economic Development grants, ARC Livable Communities Initiative grants, local TAD or SPLOST, federal Opportunity Zone incentives (if applicable) and private equity. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 37 4.8 Area H – North Stockbridge 4.8.1. Executive Summary North Stockbridge is a maturing suburban community dominated by Planned Unit Development (41.18%) and Suburban Residential (20.5%) zoning with large-lot, curvilinear subdivision patterns. Outdated PUD standards, limited housing variety, and missing neighborhood-scale commercial and trail connections are primary issues. The primary planning focus is Housing Strategies. The vision is for a well-connected, family-oriented suburban area with updated PUD standards, internal trail networks, strategic density near future village centers, and preserved open space. 4.8.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Planning is needed in North Stockbridge to modernize outdated PUD regulations and guide future build-out in a manner that enhances connectivity and housing diversity while preserving suburban character. Challenges include limited internal linkages, minimal commercial/civic uses, and infrastructure readiness gaps. Opportunities include updating development standards, developing townhomes and single-family units on vacant parcels, and creating villagescale nodes. This plan supports the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use goals by promoting quality residential growth and multi-modal connectivity. 4.8.3. Study Area Description 4.8.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area H encompasses 606 parcels totaling 534.0 acres in the northern portion of Stockbridge. As shown in Appendix 5.8, Map 1, the study area is positioned as a maturing suburban community within the City of Stockbridge, characterized by large-lot planned unit development and suburban residential subdivisions with curvilinear street patterns. 4.8.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area H is low-intensity suburban residential with large-lot subdivisions and curvilinear streets, supported by planned unit development and limited commercial uses. Appendix 5.8, Figure 1 demonstrates that zoning is dominated by Planned Unit Development (41.18%), Rural Residential (27.88%), and Suburban Residential (20.5%). Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups ranging from 36.0% to 41.8%, reflecting a family- and senior-oriented population well-suited to suburban living with enhanced connectivity. Housing occupancy is strongly owner-occupied (62.26%–74.26%), indicating stable neighborhoods where preservation and targeted density are priorities. Cost-burdened rates vary from 24.13% to 48.08%, suggesting moderate affordability needs in parts of the area. Birth rates range from 1.0% to 10.1%, while median ages span 28.6 to 45.6 years, pointing to a mix of younger families and middle-aged/older residents. Poverty levels are 6.4% to 25.2%. The maps portray a maturing suburban community with strong owner-occupancy and multi-generational A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 38 needs, where updated standards and trail connections can maintain character while addressing evolving housing demands.. 4.8.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation infrastructure in Area H is anchored by East Atlanta Rd, which borders the eastern edge. Planned unit development (green) and suburban residential (yellow) zoning extend along the boundary, marking the road as the primary suburban connector that could readily accommodate internal trail extensions. Aerial imagery reveals large-lot subdivisions and curvilinear streets lying west of the road, underscoring the low-density suburban character. Valley Hill Rd crosses the southern and central portions under planned unit development (green) and suburban residential (yellow) zoning, serving as a key local collector that ties the maturing suburban community to the wider city network. Gallup Dr appears as an internal road in the central area with planned unit development and suburban residential zoning, functioning as a local subdivision street within the curvilinear pattern that currently offers limited commercial or civic uses. Highlane Dr is visible as an internal road in the northern section where suburban residential zoning predominates, operating as a low-volume local street that supports the low-intensity suburban fabric and holds promise for updated PUD standards and trail connections. Sidewalks are sparsely distributed and seldom connect residential areas to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.8.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include the Housing Goal to provide variety of housing choices and preserve/enhance older neighborhoods (Chapter 4, p. 43), Future Land Use policies supporting planned unit development with open space and connectivity, and Transportation policies for multi-use trails. Alignment Explanation: The North Stockbridge framework advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use elements by updating PUD standards and introducing targeted density near village centers while preserving suburban character. Trail connections and form-based elements implement neighborhood preservation and multi-modal connectivity policies, ensuring the area contributes to the City’s goals for balanced residential growth and quality development. 4.8.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Outdated PUD standards lacking connectivity and open space. Large PUD areas have curvilinear streets but limited internal linkages. • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Complete North Stockbridge Neighborhood Plan update and install entry features. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Update PUD standards to require 15% open space and internal connectivity; construct internal multi-use trails. o Long-Term (5+ years): Create mixed-use village center. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • 39 Potential Partners: City Community Development, HOAs. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST, Georgia DCA Growth Management grants. Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited housing variety in established subdivisions. Predominantly single-family pattern with minimal multi-family. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Homeowner association capacity-building. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop 100+ new single-family and townhome units on vacant PUD parcels. o Long-Term (5+ years): Rezone select SR to MFR near village center. Potential Partners: Local developers. Potential Funding Sources: HUD CDBG, private impact fees. Issue/Opportunity 3: Missing neighborhood-scale commercial and civic uses. Residents travel outside the area for daily needs. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Directional signage. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Add small commercial nodes at intersections. o Long-Term (5+ years): Full village center with civic uses. Potential Partners: ARC. Potential Funding Sources: Local SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 4: Utility and infrastructure readiness for build-out. Some areas lack full extensions. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Inventory. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Extend utilities. o Long-Term (5+ years): Support full build-out. Potential Partners: City Public Works. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 5: Form-based elements for new development. Current standards are conventional. • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Plan update. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Adopt form-based code elements. o Long-Term (5+ years): Implement in new projects. Potential Partners: City staff. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • 40 Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA grants. 4.8.6. Vision & Planning Framework North Stockbridge will mature as a wellconnected, family-oriented suburban community built around its 41% PUD and 20% SR zoning. Updated PUD standards, internal trail networks, and strategic higher-density nodes near future village centers will preserve open space, enhance neighborhood cohesion, and provide diverse housing options while maintaining the low-intensity suburban character. 4.8.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale: The map is dominated by PUD – Planned Unit Development, SR – Suburban Residential, and MFR zoning in a low-intensity suburban pattern. Housing strategies represent the greatest planning impact for guiding future residential growth, density transitions, and housing affordability in North Stockbridge. Key Indicators Observed: Extensive Planned Unit Development and Suburban Residential districts, curvilinear subdivision layout, minimal commercial zoning intrusion. Alternative Category: Sustainability (greenfield character is present but housing demand is the more immediate priority). 4.8.8. Implementation Strategy 4.8.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Complete a North Stockbridge Neighborhood Plan update. Install neighborhood entry features and directional signage. Launch a homeowner association capacity-building program. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct internal multi-use trails connecting subdivisions. Develop 100+ new single-family and townhome units on vacant PUD parcels. Add neighborhood-scale commercial nodes at key intersections. Long-Term (5+ Years): Create a mixed-use village center with civic uses and higherdensity housing. Extend utility infrastructure to support full build-out. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Update PUD standards to require 15% open space and internal connectivity. Rezone select SR areas to MFR for targeted density near future village center. Adopt form-based code elements for new development in North Stockbridge. 4.8.8.2 Potential Partners City Community Development and Public Works Departments, local developers and HOAs, ARC for regional growth coordination. 4.8.8.3 Funding Sources Local SPLOST for infrastructure and trails, Georgia DCA Growth Management grants, HUD CDBG for neighborhood improvements, private development impact fees. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 41 4.9 Area I – Atlanta Highway / Highway 42 4.9.1. Executive Summary Area I along Atlanta Highway (Highway 42) functions as an eastern gateway arterial corridor with a mix of Multi-Family Residential (48.5%) and commercial zoning fronting the highway. High-speed traffic, safety concerns, access management issues, and limited east-west connectivity are prominent challenges. The primary planning focus is Transportation & Mobility. The plan will create a safer complete-street arterial with access management, buffered bike lanes, upgraded intersections, and limited mixed-use redevelopment to balance traffic movement with improved pedestrian safety. 4.9.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan This arterial corridor demands focused planning due to safety risks generated by high-speed traffic and frequent turning movements from MFR and commercial uses, compounded by missing sidewalks, poor crossings, and fragmented connectivity. Opportunities include implementing corridor overlays, complete-street retrofits, and enhanced safety features. The plan directly implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation Goal by improving multimodal safety and access management while supporting compatible corridor development under Future Land Use policies. 4.9.3. Study Area Description 4.9.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area I encompasses 887 parcels totaling 646.0 acres along Atlanta Highway (Highway 42). As shown in Appendix 5.9, Map 1, the study area is positioned as an eastern gateway arterial corridor within the City of Stockbridge, featuring multi-family residential and commercial zoning fronting the highway with supporting uses behind. 4.9.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area I features multi-family residential and commercial uses fronting the Atlanta Highway arterial, with supporting office, planned unit, and suburban residential backing the corridor. Appendix 5.9, Figure 1 demonstrates that zoning is led by Multi-Family Residential at 48.5%, with Office Institutional (24.76%) and smaller commercial components. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 depict a corridor with younger to middle-aged residents and notable affordability pressures. Dependent age groups range from 34.3% to 41.7%, indicating families and seniors who would benefit from safer crossings and better east-west connections. Housing occupancy is predominantly owner-occupied (62.02%–94.36%), though renter presence exists. Cost-burdened rates of 25.53% to 45.07% highlight moderate to high housing cost challenges that improved mobility could help mitigate by enhancing access to opportunities. Birth rates are 1.5% and 5.9%, while median ages of 34.3 and 37.3 years reflect a working-age population suited to arterial corridor redevelopment. Poverty levels range from 10.6% to 18.4%. The maps A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 42 portray an eastern gateway area with a relatively young demographic and cost pressures, where transportation safety enhancements can support residential stability and economic function. 4.9.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation network in Area I is defined by Atlanta Highway / Highway 42 (also designated State Route 42), which passes through the center as the primary arterial. Multi-family residential (brown) and commercial zoning front the highway with office institutional backing, portraying the corridor as an eastern gateway arterial marked by high-speed traffic, frequent turning movements, and missing sidewalks that present clear opportunities for access management, buffered bike lanes, and complete-street retrofits. Aerial imagery shows the highway lined with commercial and multi-family development, wooded areas, and curvilinear residential streets set back from the roadway. Brannan Rd borders the southern and eastern edge, flanked by multi-family residential and commercial zoning, serving as a local connector that requires focused safety and access management measures. Sidewalks remain sparse throughout the area and rarely connect residential neighborhoods to parks or commercial destinations. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.9.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include the Transportation Goal and policies for complete streets, access management, and multi-modal improvements on major arterials (Chapter 4, p. 52), and Future Land Use policies for rational development along corridors. Alignment Explanation: The Atlanta Highway study implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Transportation priorities through corridor overlay standards, access management, and complete-street retrofits along the mixed MFR/commercial zoning. Safety and pedestrian improvements directly support the Plan’s sidewalk, trail, and safety action items while limited mixed-use allowances align with Future Land Use goals for compatible corridor development. 4.9.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: High-speed arterial safety and access management. MFR and commercial frontage generates frequent turning movements. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Install pedestrian refuge islands and upgraded signals; conduct corridor safety audit with GDOT. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Build continuous sidewalk and buffered bike lanes; adopt Atlanta Highway Corridor Overlay. o Long-Term (5+ years): Rebuild intersections as roundabouts or complete streets. Potential Partners: GDOT District 3, City Public Works. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT HSIP, SPLOST, ARC Transportation grants. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 43 Issue/Opportunity 2: Limited east-west connectivity. Curvilinear residential streets behind the corridor lack cross connections. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Business access management education. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Coordinated landscaping and lighting. o Long-Term (5+ years): Encourage transit-oriented mixed-use on large parcels. Potential Partners: ARC, adjacent property owners. Potential Funding Sources: Federal Highway Safety Improvement Program. Issue/Opportunity 3: Opportunity for limited residential in commercial zones. Select C3/C2 sites can support mixed-use. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Safety audit. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop multi-modal corridor plan. o Long-Term (5+ years): Allow limited residential with design review. Potential Partners: City Economic Development. Potential Funding Sources: GDOT Local Government Road Program. Issue/Opportunity 4: Pedestrian crossing deficiencies. Major crossings lack refuge and signals. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Refuge islands. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Sidewalk construction. o Long-Term (5+ years): Modern intersections. Potential Partners: Local business groups. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 5: Corridor identity and landscaping. Fragmented appearance along the highway. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Education program. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Landscaping standards. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelopment incentives. Potential Partners: Property owners. Potential Funding Sources: ARC grants. 4.9.6. Vision & Planning Framework Atlanta Highway/Highway 42 will operate as a safe, complete-street arterial corridor where MFR, PUD, and commercial zoning are supported by access management, buffered bike lanes, and upgraded intersections. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 44 The area will balance traffic-generating uses with improved pedestrian safety and limited mixed-use redevelopment that strengthens the City’s eastern gateway. 4.9.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Transportation & Mobility. Rationale: The area lies directly along Atlanta Highway/Highway 42 with a mix of MFR, PUD, commercial, and SR zoning fronting the arterial. The corridor’s scale and trafficgenerating uses make transportation and mobility the primary study focus to improve safety, access, and connectivity supporting the 2026 zoning. Key Indicators Observed: Commercial and multi-family zoning along the major highway, mix of planned and suburban residential backing the corridor, limited east-west connectivity visible in the layout. Alternative Category: Economic Development (relevant for corridor businesses but mobility infrastructure would enable broader implementation). 4.9.8. Implementation Strategy 4.9.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Install pedestrian refuge islands and upgraded signal heads at major crossings. Conduct corridor safety audit with GDOT. Launch business access management education program. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Build continuous sidewalk and buffered bike lanes along Hwy 42 frontage. Implement coordinated landscaping and lighting standards. Develop a multimodal corridor plan. Long-Term (5+ Years): Rebuild select intersections as modern roundabouts or signalized complete streets. Encourage redevelopment of large parcels into transitoriented mixed-use. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Adopt an Atlanta Highway Corridor Overlay with access management and complete-street standards. Allow limited residential uses in commercial zones with design review. Text amendment for reduced curb cuts and shared access requirements. 4.9.8.2 Potential Partners City Public Works, Community Development, and Economic Development, GDOT District 3, ARC Transportation Division, adjacent property owners and business groups. 4.9.8.3 Funding Sources GDOT Local Government Road and Street Program, Federal Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), SPLOST for pedestrian infrastructure, ARC Transportation grants. 4.10 Area J – Eastern Section of North Henry Boulevard 4.10.1. Executive Summary The eastern section of North Henry Boulevard is a stable suburban residential area dominated by Suburban Residential (48.94%) and Planned A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 45 Unit Development zoning with scattered commercial nodes. Incremental infill pressure, limited housing diversity, and gaps in pedestrian connectivity define current conditions. The primary planning focus is Housing Strategies. The plan envisions strengthened neighborhood character through targeted infill, cottage-style options, enhanced walkability, and linear greenways while preserving the area’s residential fabric. 4.10.2. Purpose & Need for the Plan Focused planning is required in Area J to manage infill development in SR and PUD zones without eroding neighborhood character and to address gaps in housing variety and pedestrian infrastructure. Challenges include missing sidewalk segments, limited design guidance for new development, and underutilized opportunities for accessory dwelling units. Opportunities exist for residential overlays, townhome infill, and greenway connections. This plan advances the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use objectives by promoting compatible infill, walkability, and diverse housing choices that enhance quality of life. 4.10.3. Study Area Description 4.10.3.1 Location & Boundaries Area I encompasses 887 parcels totaling 646.0 acres along Atlanta Highway (Highway 42). As shown in Appendix 5.10, Map 1, the study area is positioned as an eastern gateway arterial corridor within the City of Stockbridge, featuring multi-family residential and commercial zoning fronting the highway with supporting uses behind. 4.10.3.2 Existing Conditions The land use pattern in Area J is stable suburban residential with grid-and-curvilinear streets and scattered small commercial nodes. Appendix 5.10, Figure 1 reveals that zoning is led by Suburban Residential at 48.94%, with Planned Unit Development (9.57%), Multi-Family Residential (8.51%), and supporting commercial districts. Demographic maps in Appendix 5.11 show dependent age groups at 36.0% and 40.2%, indicating a family-oriented population that would benefit from improved walkability and infill options. Housing occupancy is mixed, with renter-occupied units at 63.78% in one tract, reflecting demand for both ownership and rental choices. Cost-burdened rates of 48.08% to 54.52% highlight notable affordability pressures that targeted housing strategies and overlays can help address. Birth rates are low at 1.0% and 1.4%, while median ages of 28.4 and 36.1 years point to a younger working-age demographic suitable for diverse housing types. Poverty levels range from 9.3% to 25.2%. The maps portray an established suburban neighborhood with younger residents and cost challenges, where residential overlays, cottage-style infill, and greenway connections can preserve character while meeting evolving needs. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 46 4.10.3.3 Infrastructure & Mobility Transportation infrastructure in Area J centers on North Henry Blvd, which forms the western boundary. Suburban residential (yellow) and planned unit development zoning line the frontage with scattered commercial nodes, indicating the boulevard functions as the main residential collector that holds strong potential for neighborhood overlays and linear greenway connections. Aerial imagery illustrates suburban residential lots and curvilinear streets extending east of the boulevard. Miller Rd passes through the central portion, where suburban residential (yellow) zoning is predominant along its length with occasional multi-family pockets, operating as a local grid street inside the stable suburban fabric that can support walkability, cottage-style infill, and design standards for building orientation. Oakland Blvd borders the eastern edge under suburban residential (yellow) zoning, serving as a boundary local street that offers opportunities for design standards and street tree enhancements. Stephens Av traverses the southern portion, bordered by suburban residential (yellow) zoning, functioning as a local connector within the grid-andcurvilinear residential pattern. Sidewalks are sparsely distributed and seldom link residential areas to parks or commercial nodes. At present, the study area has no transit service or dedicated bicycle facilities. 4.10.4. Relationship to the Comprehensive Plan Relevant Comp Plan Elements include the Housing Goal and policies promoting housing variety, infill, and neighborhood preservation (Chapter 4, p. 43), Future Land Use support for low-density mixed-use along corridors and residential infill, and Transportation policies for sidewalk and greenway connectivity. Alignment Explanation: This study area implements the Comprehensive Plan’s Housing and Future Land Use vision by applying overlays, ADU/cottage standards, and infill incentives within the predominant SR/PUD zoning of the eastern North Henry Boulevard section. Walkability and greenway actions advance multi-modal connectivity goals, ensuring residential development enhances neighborhood stability and contributes to the City’s overall housing supply and qualityof-life objectives. 4.10.5. Key Issues & Opportunities Issue/Opportunity 1: Neighborhood character preservation amid infill pressure. SR and PUD zoning faces incremental change without design guidance. • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Neighborhood character survey and design guideline development; small-scale traffic calming. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Implement Residential Neighborhood Overlay allowing cottage homes and ADUs; construct missing sidewalks. o Long-Term (5+ years): Redevelop larger SR/PUD blocks into higherdensity walkable neighborhoods. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • 47 Potential Partners: City Community Development, HOAs. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia DCA HOME, HUD CDBG, SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 2: Housing supply and diversity gaps. Limited options beyond traditional single-family. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Partner with HOAs for clean-up events. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Develop 60–80 new townhome units on infill parcels. o Long-Term (5+ years): Create linear greenway along drainage features. Potential Partners: Local residential developers, ARC Housing. Potential Funding Sources: Georgia Housing Trust Fund, Federal Community Services Block Grant. Issue/Opportunity 3: Pedestrian connectivity to Boulevard and parks. Missing sidewalk segments reduce walkability. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Traffic calming on local streets. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Safe pedestrian crossings. o Long-Term (5+ years): Greenway network. Potential Partners: City Public Works. Potential Funding Sources: SPLOST. Issue/Opportunity 4: Small neighborhood commercial nodes. Scattered C2/C1 pockets can be better integrated. • • • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Beautification events. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Establish small commercial node with design standards. o Long-Term (5+ years): Rezone targeted parcels from SR to MFR where adjacent. Potential Partners: Local HOAs. Potential Funding Sources: Local general fund. Issue/Opportunity 5: Design standards for building orientation and street trees. Current development lacks consistent form. • Priority Actions: o Short-Term (0–2 years): Guideline development. o Mid-Term (3–5 years): Add design standards. o Long-Term (5+ years): Full implementation. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH • • 48 Potential Partners: City staff. Potential Funding Sources: ARC grants. 4.10.6. Vision & Planning Framework The eastern section of North Henry Boulevard will strengthen its role as a stable suburban residential neighborhood with targeted infill and neighborhood commercial nodes. Leveraging 49% SR and supporting PUD zoning, the area will feature enhanced walkability, cottage-style housing options, and linear greenways that connect to the broader city trail network while preserving the grid-andcurvilinear residential fabric. 4.10.7. Recommendations Selected Category: Housing Strategies. Rationale: Predominant SR – Suburban Residential and PUD zoning, with scattered MFR and smaller commercial pockets, defines the eastern section. Housing strategies are the most impactful focus for managing residential development patterns, infill, and neighborhood character along this segment of North Henry Boulevard. Key Indicators Observed: Large Suburban Residential and Planned Unit Development areas, grid and curvilinear residential street networks, limited commercial nodes serving the housing. Alternative Category: Land Use (helpful for transitions but housing policy would drive greater near- to mid-term results). 4.10.8. Implementation Strategy 4.10.8.1 Priority Projects Short-Term (0–2 Years): Neighborhood character survey and design guideline development. Small-scale traffic calming on local residential streets. Partner with HOAs for community clean-up and beautification events. Mid-Term (3–5 Years): Construct missing sidewalk segments and safe pedestrian crossings. Develop 60–80 new townhome units on appropriately zoned infill parcels. Establish a small neighborhood commercial node with design standards. Long-Term (5+ Years): Redevelop larger SR/PUD blocks into higher-density, walkable neighborhoods. Create a linear greenway along existing drainage features. Zoning & Regulatory Recommendations: Implement a Residential Neighborhood Overlay allowing cottage homes and ADUs in SR zones. Rezone targeted parcels from SR to MFR where adjacent to existing multi-family. Add design standards for building orientation and street trees. 4.10.8.2 Potential Partners City Public Works and Community Development Departments, local residential developers and HOAs, Atlanta Regional Commission Housing programs. A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 4.10.8.3 Funding Sources Georgia DCA HOME Program and Housing Trust Fund, local SPLOST for sidewalks and greenways, HUD CDBG for neighborhood revitalization, Federal Community Services Block Grant for community programs. 49 A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 50 5. Appendices 5.1 Area A: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area A Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area A 5.2 Area B: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area B Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area B A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 51 5.3 Area C: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area C Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area C 5.4 Area D: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area D Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area D A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 52 5.5 Area E: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area E Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area E 5.6 Area F: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area F Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area F A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 53 5.7 Area G: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area G Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area G 5.8 Area H: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area H Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area H A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 54 5.9 Area I: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area I Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area I 5.10 Area J: Maps and Charts Map 1: Zoning Map of Area J Figure 1: Percent of Total Land Area by Zoning District for Area J A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH 55 5.11 All Areas: Demographic Maps Map 1: Percent of Population in Dependent Age Groups by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026) Map 2: Percent of Cost-Burdened Householders by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026) A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH Map 3: Birth Rates by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026) Map 4: Median Ages by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026) 56 A STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT FOR CITY GROWTH Map 5: Percent of Predominant Housing Types by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026) Map 6: Percent of Population Below Poverty Line by Census Tracts with Small Area Overlay (2026) 57 APRIL 13, 2026 ✔ Ryan Anderson Community Development VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026.01. (Council District 2) Consideration of a variance application for two setback variances on Parcel #S20-03003000 on Wilson Avenue to allow for the construction of a new single-family detached dwelling. Applicant: Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction. Zoned: SR. Property size: 0.613 +/- acres. Variance Request #1— Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet. Variance Request #2—Reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet. The property is long and narrow. The existing setbacks would leave only a tiny, triangular-shaped buildable area, making it infeasible to build the house. Staff recommendation: Approval, with three conditions: 1) the dwelling must have at least 1,500 total heated square feet, which the SR district requires; 2) the applicant must submit a new site plan which shows the driveway location off Wilson Avenue, whereby no vehicles would protrude into the street from the driveway; and 3) the dwelling must comply with the UDC façade requirements. Planning Commission Action: Approval with Staff’s three conditions. ✔ 0.00 VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026-01. APPROVAL WITH CONDITIONS. Henry County, GA Overview Legend Parcels Roads 147 ft Parcel ID Property Address District S20-03003000 Class Residential Owner Acreage 0.61 Address City/Stockbridge BERNAL GOPAR LAURA & GOPAR-CARMONA LUIS A 103 ROSENWALD CIR STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281 Land Value: Building Value: Misc Value: Total Value: $18,000 $0 $0 Last 2 Sales Date Price Reason Qual 4/21/2023 $18,000 LM Q 1/1/1945 $0 U U $18,000 Parcel lines depicted on the maps do not re ect a true and exact representation of property boundaries and should not be relied upon for said purpose. Property boundary lines are depicted on recorded plats available at the Henry County courthouse or can be determined by employing the services of a licensed surveyor. Date created: 2/12/2026 Last Data Uploaded: 2/12/2026 1:13:26 AM Developed by LETTER OF INTENT BAC Construction Inc 110 Walter Way Unit 1963 6785209509 bac@bac-constructioninc.com February 26, 2026 Stockbridge, Georgia Planning & Zoning Commission 4602 N Henry Blvd Stockbridge Ga 30281 RE: Letter of Intent & Variance Request for Property at 0 Wilson Ave, Parcel ID S20-03003000 Dear Members of the Planning & Zoning Commission, I am writing to formally submit a Letter of Intent and request a variance from the regulations of the Unified Development Code (UDC) for the property located at 0 Wilson Ave, legally known as Parcel ID S20-03003000. The purpose of this variance is to allow for reduction in existing lot setbacks.: • • • "A reduction in the required front-yard setback from 50 feet to 25 feet for the proposed construction of a new single-family residence." "A reduction in the required rear-yard setback from 40 feet to 20 feet for the proposed construction of a new single-family residence." Side-yard setback no change. Property and Project Description: The subject property is a residential lot, S20-.3003000 parcel within the Unified Development Code (UDC), specifically section 4.3.2. I am proposing to construct a new single-family residence. Justification for Variance: I believe this request meets the standard for a variance based on the following practical difficulties or unique circumstances associated with this specific property, as outlined in the City/Town zoning ordinance: 1. Unique Physical Circumstances: The property possesses unique conditions not generally found in the surrounding area, such as, an irregular lot shape, significant topographic constraints (steep slope, rock outcropping), an existing non-conforming structure, or unusual dimensions]. These conditions create a practical difficulty in complying with the strict application of the UDC standards for my intended use. 2. No Material Detriment: The requested variance will not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. The proposed project, "will be consistent in scale, materials, and design with adjacent properties" or "will be screened from view and will not create noise, traffic, or privacy impacts". It will not be materially detrimental to nearby properties or to the public welfare. 3. Preservation of Property Rights: The strict application of the UDC regulations would result in an unnecessary hardship, depriving me of reasonable use of my property. The variance sought is the minimum necessary to achieve a reasonable use. 4. Consistency with UDC Intent: The variance, if granted, will allow a project that remains consistent with the broader purposes and intent of the Unified Development Code, which is to, "promote thoughtful development, enhance the streetscape, or support viable business operations". I have attached preliminary site plans, drawings, and photographs to illustrate the existing conditions and the proposed work. I am committed to working with your staff to ensure the project meets all other applicable codes and standards. I respectfully request that the Planning & Zoning Commission consider this variance request at your next available public hearing. I am available to answer any questions and to provide additional information as needed. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Jerry Robinson BAC Construction Inc. Owner Attachments: • • • • Site Plan Building Elevations/Renderings (if applicable) Photographs of Property Any other supporting documents CRUSHED STONE CONSTRUCTION EXIT EXIT DIAGRAM X X X X X X ENTRANCE ELEVATION Ds1 Ds3 X X X X X Ds2 SILT FENCE - TYPE SENSITIVE SIDE VIEW FRONT VIEW POWERPOINT PRESENTATION FOR VARIANCE CASE #VR-2026-01 Planning Commission Meeting—March 19, 2026 City Council Meeting—April 13, 2026 CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT Ryan Anderson, Director FACTS ABOUT THE SUBJECT PROPERTY Property Location: Parcel #S20-03003000, located on the east side of Wilson Avenue and the north side of Wilson Street. Property Owners: Laura Bernal Gopar & Luis A. Gopar-Carmona. Council District: 2 (Councilmember Antwan Cloud). Bordering Roads: Wilson Avenue to the west and Wilson Street to the south (corner lot). (See the aerial photograph.) Current Zoning: SR (Suburban Residential). (See the Zoning Map.) Future Land Use Designation: Medium-Density Mixed-Use. (See the Future Land Use Map.) Property Conditions: The property is long and narrow, with 0.613 +/- acres, and it is currently vacant. (See the aerial photo.) AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH for PARCEL #S20-03003000 Showing the Property Location, Size, and Shape BOUNDARY SURVEY (Prepared by Scanlon Engineering Services, Inc. on 4/17/23) ZONING MAP FOR VR-2026-01 FUTURE LAND USE MAP FOR VR-2026-01 CASE PURPOSE (Slide #1) Applicant: Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction (the builder). Proposed Development: New single-family detached dwelling with 2,294 total heated square feet. Purpose of Case: Applicant requests to reduce the required front and rear yard setbacks in order to have sufficient land area on which to build the home. Need for Case: The subject property is narrow and has an irregular shape. Sign Posting—The zoning sign was posted on the subject property on March 4, 2026. (See the aerial photo.) POSTING OF ZONING SIGN ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY (View Toward the South)—March 4, 2026 CASE PURPOSE (Slide #2) Required Setbacks—The setback requirements in the SR district are stated in Section 2.4.2 (B) of the Stockbridge Unified Development Code (UDC). They are as follows: ~ 50 feet for the front yard setback. ~ 10 feet for the side yard setback. ~ 40 feet for the rear yard setback. Reason for Variance Requests--Because of the irregular shape and dimensions of the lot, the applicant has experienced difficulty in complying with the front and rear yard setbacks. The applicant has therefore requested two variances to allow him to deviate from these setback requirements: Variance Request #1—To reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet. Variance Request #2—To reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet. (No variance is needed for the side yards since they would meet the required 10 feet.) PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT (Slide #1) Proposed Construction--A new single-family detached dwelling (home). Site Location—To be built in the northern portion of the property, which is the widest. (See the Proposed Site Plan.) Required Dwelling Size: At least 1,500 square feet in the SR district. Proposed Dwelling Size: 2,294 total square feet, with 1,370 heated square feet on the first floor and 924 square feet on the second floor. (See the Proposed Site Plan.) Required Setbacks: ~ They must be at least 50 feet in the front, 40 feet in the rear, and 10 feet on the sides. (See the Site Plan Enlargement #1.) ~ Due to the irregular shape and size of the property, the use of these setbacks would leave only a tiny, triangular area left to build the home on. PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT (Slide #2) Proposed Setbacks: ~ Shown on the submitted site plan, prepared by BRC Land Services on 01/28/26. (See the Site Plan Enlargement #1.) ~ Proposed reduction of the front and rear yard setbacks by 50 percent each. ~ Variance Request #1—Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet. (The new Building Line would be 25 feet, and the actual setback would be 27.31 feet.) ~ Variance Request #2—Reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet. (The new Building Line would be 20 feet, and the actual setback would be 21.31 feet.) (See the Site Plan Enlargement #2.) ~ No variances are needed for the side yard setbacks, since they would be 12.97 feet, which is more than the required 10 feet. ~ The proposed footprint of the home is shown in the shaded area. Comparison of Required Versus Proposed Setbacks--The applicant’s proposed setbacks would significantly enlarge the available buildable area for constructing the proposed home. (See the Site Plan Enlargement #3.) PROPOSED SITE PLAN— Shows Proposed Home on Northern Portion of Site (Prepared by BRC Land Services on 01/28/26) SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #1--REQUIRED SETBACKS :: SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #2--PROPOSED SETBACKS SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #3—SETBACK COMPARISONS ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #1) Required Criteria—Section 10.1.3 of the UDC lists seven (7) criteria to be used in analyzing variance requests. It states that a variance may be granted upon a finding that all seven of these criteria are met. Since both variance requests are for the reduction of setbacks rather than any other matter, they may be addressed together within each criterion below. A. Extraordinary and exceptional circumstances pertaining to the particular piece of property in question exist due its size, shape, or topography that are not found on other properties in the same zoning district; ~The subject property has an irregular shape and a very narrow depth. According to the applicant’s survey, the property has a frontage on Wilson Avenue of 519.81 feet, and its greatest depth of 119.81 feet is at the northern end of the property. ~ These dimensions differ significantly from those of most of the other lots along Wilson Avenue, which have an estimated average of 110 feet of frontage and a depth of 200 feet. The southern end of the subject property is only an estimated 15 feet deep. ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #2) B. A literal interpretation of the provisions of this unified development code would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by owners of other properties located in the same zoning district; ~ The required front yard setback is 50 feet in the SR district, and the required rear yard setback is 40 feet. ~ That means that there must be at least 90 feet of land area, from the front (at Wilson Avenue) to the rear, on which to build a house. ~ Since the deepest area at the northern end of the property has 119.81 feet, that would leave only 29.81 feet, from the front to the rear, on which to build a house. But the property tapers quickly to the south, leaving even less land area on which to build. ~The applicant’s site plan shows that only a tiny triangular-shaped area would be left on which to build the proposed house. ~ It would therefore not be possible to meet the setback requirements. ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #3) C. Granting the variance requested will not confer upon the property owner any special privileges that are denied to other owners of property in the same zoning district; ~ The applicant wishes to construct a single-family dwelling on the subject property, just as most of the other properties within the surrounding neighborhood also have single-family dwellings. ~ Without the requested variances, it would not be physically possible to construct a dwelling. ~ Although the proposed house would have 2,294 total heated square feet, only 1,370 square feet would be located on the first floor, and the remaining 924 square feet would be on the second floor. The applicant therefore would be reducing the size of the first floor (the footprint of the house) in order to leave more land area for the front and rear yard setbacks. ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #4) D. The variance will be consistent with the purposes and intent of this unified development code, will be compatible with uses on neighboring properties, and will serve the public welfare; ~ The subject property is located within the SR zoning district, which allows singlefamily detached dwellings. ~ The applicant’s proposed single-family detached dwelling would be compatible with the other single-family detached dwellings in the surrounding neighborhood. The development of the property would therefore represent a positive addition to the neighborhood. ~ Since a standard parking space is 20 feet long, the proposed front yard setback of 25 feet would allow any parked car on a driveway off Wilson Avenue to avoid protruding into the street, and no sidewalk is present on the east side of Wilson Avenue. ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS (Slide #5) E. The extraordinary circumstances are not the result of actions of the applicant; The applicant did not create the dimensions of the subject property, and the applicant has reduced the size of the footprint of the proposed home in order to not require even greater reductions in the front and rear yard setbacks. F. The variance is the minimum relief that will allow the legal use of the land, building or structure; and Due to the irregular dimensions and shape of the subject property, the requested variances appear to be the only possible relief to enable the property to be developed with a single-family detached dwelling as an allowable use. G. The variance is not a request to permit a use of land, buildings or structures that is prohibited in the same zoning district. The applicant proposes to build a type of use (a single-family detached dwelling) that is permitted within the property’s zoning district, Suburban Residential. STAFF CONCLUSION As a result of the foregoing analysis, the Planning and Zoning Staff has reached the conclusion that the applicant’s requests for front and rear yard setbacks are reasonable and should be granted for the following reasons: 1. The applicant proposes to develop an acceptable type of use on the property. 2. The irregular shape and dimensions of the property represent a significant hardship for developing the property, making it impossible to meet the required setbacks. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Based on the Staff Conclusion above, the Planning and Zoning Staff therefore recommends the APPROVAL OF BOTH VARIANCE REQUESTS, with the following three conditions: 1. Size of Dwelling—The proposed single-family detached dwelling shall have at least 1,500 total square feet of heated space in order to meet the minimum required dwelling size within the SR district. 2. Site Plan--The proposed development shall be constructed according to a revised site plan that is very similar to the submitted one, entitled “0 Wilson Avenue”, which was prepared by BRC Land Services as Job No. 025-0024 on 01/28/2026 and revised on 02/24/2026. The revised site plan shall show a driveway in an acceptable location off Wilson Avenue, having a length that would not cause parked vehicles to protrude into the street. 3. Dwelling Facades—The facades of the dwelling shall be constructed of materials which comply with the requirements of the Stockbridge Unified Development Code. 1 TO: Stockbridge Mayor and City Council Stockbridge Planning Commission FROM: Linda M. Logan, Senior Planner, Planning and Zoning Division CC: Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director DATE: March 19, 2026 (Planning Commission Meeting) and April 13, 2026 (City Council Meeting) SUBJECT: Staff Report for Variance Case #VR-2026-01 for Parcel #S2003003000 on Wilson Avenue (Council District 2) PURPOSE The applicant for Variance Case #VR-2026-01, Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction, Inc., proposes to construct a new single-family detached dwelling on Parcel #S20-03003000 on Wilson Avenue within the City of Stockbridge. The subject property is located in Land Lot 36 of District 12, and it has 0.613 +/- acres, according to the applicant’s submitted survey of the property. It is not located in any subdivision. The property is vacant and it has an elongated, tapered shape, as is shown by the aerial photograph. The property is bounded by Wilson Avenue to the west and Wilson Street to the south. The aerial photo and the submitted survey show the presence of a dirt driveway traversing the lower portion of the property. The driveway provides access to a house at 130 Wilson Avenue, which is a land-locked property. The current zoning of the property is SR (Suburban Residential), which has the following minimum required setbacks: 50 feet for the front yard setback, 10 feet for the side yard setback, and 40 feet for the rear yard setback. Because of the irregular shape and dimensions of the lot, the applicant has experienced difficulty in complying with the front and rear yard setbacks. The applicant has therefore requested two variances: ~ Variance Request #1--Request for a variance from Section 2.4.2 (B) of the Stockbridge Unified Development Code (UDC) to allow a reduction in the required front-yard setback from 50 feet to 25 feet for the proposed construction of a new single-family residence. ~ Variance Request #2--Request for a variance from Section 2.4.2.(B) to allow a reduction in the required rear-yard setback from 40 feet to 20 feet for the proposed City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 2 construction of a new single-family residence. AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY (PARCEL #S20-03003000 ON WILSON AVENUE) City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 3 CASE FACTS TABLE DESCRIPTIVE FACTOR FINDINGS Proposed Development New single-family detached dwelling. Property Location Parcel Identification Parcel Acreage Land District and Land Lot Council District Applicant West side of Wilson Avenue Parcel S20-03003000 0.613 +/- total acres. District 12, Land Lot 36. 2 (Councilmember Antwan Cloud). Jerry Robinson of BAC Construction, Inc. Property Owners Laura Bernal Gopar & Luis A. GoparCarmona. Existing Zoning SR (Suburban Residential). Surrounding Zoning SR (Suburban Residential). Future Land Use Designation Medium-Density Residential Property Conditions Parcel shape--elongated and variable. Surface--level and wooded. Current Use Undeveloped, although a dirt driveway traverses the property near the southern end and provides access to a house at 130 Wilson Avenue, which is a landlocked parcel. ~ North—Vacant land and a church. ~ South—Several houses along Wilson Street. ~ East—Several houses along Carrie Mae Lane, within the Silent Avenue Subdivision, including the house at 130 Wilson Avenue. ~ West—Several houses along Wilson Avenue, plus a small beauty salon. March 4, 2026. Surrounding Land Uses Posting of Zoning Sign City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 4 CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE 2026 ZONING MAP LEGEND: Yellow—SR (Suburban Residential). Pink—C1 (Neighborhood Commercial). Black Star—Subject Property. City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 5 CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE 2026 FUTURE LAND USE MAP LEGEND: Light Orange—Medium-Density Residential Lilac—Downtown District Light Blue—Public/Institutional Black Star—Subject Property. City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 6 BOUNDARY SURVEY (Prepared by Scanlon Engineering Services, Inc. on 4/17/23) City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 7 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT The applicant proposes to build a new single-family detached dwelling on the subject property, which would be a permitted use within the SR (Single-Family Residential) zoning district. The new home would have 2,294 total heated square feet, including 1,370 square feet on the first floor and the remaining 924 square feet on the second floor. The home would be situated on the northern portion of the property, which has the largest area. Required Setbacks. In the SR district, the required setbacks are 50 feet for the front yard setback (from Wilson Avenue), 10 feet for the side yard setbacks, and 40 feet for the rear yard setback. The applicant’s proposed site plan on the next page shows these required setbacks and the first-floor footprint of the proposed home. The locations of the required setbacks would leave only a tiny, triangular-shaped area on which to build the home. The front and rear yard setbacks would both be substantially exceeded. This is shown by Site Plan Enlargement #1 on the following page, which shows the required setbacks. Proposed Setbacks. The applicant submitted a site plan, which was prepared by BRC Land Services on 01/28/26. It shows that, in order to have sufficient land area on which to build the proposed home, the applicant has proposed reducing the front and rear yard setbacks by 50 percent each. That is, the front yard setback would be reduced from the required 50 feet to 25 feet (the subject of Variance Request #1) and the rear yard setback would be reduced from the required 40 feet to 20 feet (the subject of Variance Request #2). Site Plan Enlargement #2 depicts these variance requests. The proposed footprint of the home is shown in the shaded area. The proposed new Building Lines of 25 feet and 20 feet, respectively, are shown, and the actual setbacks would be 27.31 feet in the front yard and 21.31 feet in the rear yard. The required 10-front side yard setbacks would be met; thus, no variance would be needed for the side yard setbacks. The side yard setback on the northern side of the home would actually be 12.97 feet. Comparison of Required Versus Proposed Setbacks. Site Plan Enlargement #3 shows both the required and the proposed setbacks for the front and rear yards. The applicant’s proposed setbacks would significantly enlarge the available buildable area for constructing the proposed home. City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 8 PROPOSED SITE PLAN— Shows Location of Proposed Home On the Northern Portion of the Property (Prepared by BRC Land Services on 01/28/26) City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 9 SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #1— SHOWS THE REQUIRED SETBACKS Required Setbacks: ~ 50 feet in the front ~ 10 feet on the sides ~ 40 feet in the rear City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 10 SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #2— SHOWS THE PROPOSED SETBACKS Proposed Setbacks: ~ 25 feet in the front (Variance Request #1) ~ 10 feet on the sides (no variance) ~ 20 feet in the rear (Variance Request #2) City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 11 SITE PLAN ENLARGEMENT #3— SHOWS BOTH THE REQUIRED SETBACKS AND THE PROPOSED SETBACKS City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 12 ANALYSIS OF VARIANCE REQUESTS The applicant has submitted a Variance application to request two variances, as are listed below, for the development of a proposed single-family dwelling on Parcel #S2003003000 on Wilson Avenue. In both variance requests, the applicant is seeking permission to forego compliance with a particular requirement within the Unified Development Code (UDC) regulations. Each variance request has been analyzed by the Planning and Zoning Staff and is discussed below. 1. Variance Request #1—Reduce the front yard setback from the required 50 feet to 25 feet. 2. Variance Request #2—Reduce the rear yard setback from the required 40 feet to 20 feet. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ 10.1.3 - Criteria to be considered for deciding variances. A variance may be granted only upon a finding by the mayor and city council that all the following conditions are met: A. Extraordinary and exceptional circumstances pertaining to the particular piece of property in question exist due its size, shape, or topography that are not found on other properties in the same zoning district; B. A literal interpretation of the provisions of this unified development code would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by owners of other properties located in the same zoning district; C. Granting the variance requested will not confer upon the property owner any special privileges that are denied to other owners of property in the same zoning district; D. The variance will be consistent with the purposes and intent of this unified development code, will be compatible with uses on neighboring properties, and will serve the public welfare; E. The extraordinary circumstances are not the result of actions of the applicant; F. The variance is the minimum relief that will allow the legal use of the land, building or structure; and G. The variance is not a request to permit a use of land, buildings or structures that is prohibited in the same zoning district. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 13 Analysis of Variance Criteria Since both variance requests are for the reduction of setbacks rather than any other matter, they may be addressed together within each criterion below. A. Extraordinary and exceptional circumstances pertaining to the particular piece of property in question exist due its size, shape, or topography that are not found on other properties in the same zoning district; The subject property has an irregular shape and a very narrow depth. According to the applicant’s submitted survey, the subject property has a frontage on Wilson Avenue of 519.81 feet, and its greatest depth of 119.81 feet is at the northern end of the property. These dimensions differ significantly from those of most of the other lots along Wilson Avenue, which have an estimated average of 110 feet of frontage and a depth of 200 feet, according to the aerial photographs from the Henry County Tax Assessors’ website. The southern end of the subject property is only an estimated 15 feet deep. B. A literal interpretation of the provisions of this unified development code would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by owners of other properties located in the same zoning district; The required front yard setback is 50 feet in the SR district, and the required rear yard setback is 40 feet. That means that there must be at least 90 feet of land area, from the front (at Wilson Avenue) to the rear, on which to build a house. Since the deepest area at the northern end of the property has 119.81 feet, that would leave only 29.81 feet, from the front to the rear, on which to build a house. But the property tapers quickly to the south, leaving even less land area on which to build. The applicant’s site plan showing the required setbacks indicates that only a tiny triangular-shaped area would be left on which to build the proposed house. It would therefore not be possible to meet the setback requirements. C. Granting the variance requested will not confer upon the property owner any special privileges that are denied to other owners of property in the same zoning district; The applicant wishes to construct a single-family dwelling on the subject property, just as most of the other properties within the surrounding neighborhood also have single-family dwellings. Without the requested variances, it would not be physically possible to construct a dwelling. Although the proposed house would have 2,294 total heated square feet, only 1,370 square feet would be located on the first floor, and the remaining 924 square feet would be on the second floor. The applicant therefore would be reducing the size of the first floor (the footprint of the house) in order to leave more land area for the front and rear yard setbacks. City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 14 D. The variance will be consistent with the purposes and intent of this unified development code, will be compatible with uses on neighboring properties, and will serve the public welfare; The subject property is located within the SR zoning district, which allows singlefamily detached dwellings. The applicant’s proposed single-family detached dwelling would be compatible with the other single-family detached dwellings in the surrounding neighborhood. The development of the property would therefore represent a positive addition to the neighborhood. Further, since a standard parking space is 20 feet long, the proposed front yard setback of 25 feet would allow any parked car on a driveway off Wilson Avenue to avoid protruding into the street, and no sidewalk is present on the east side of Wilson Avenue. E. The extraordinary circumstances are not the result of actions of the applicant; The applicant did not create the dimensions of the subject property, and the applicant has reduced the size of the footprint of the proposed home in order to not require even greater reductions in the front and rear yard setbacks. F. The variance is the minimum relief that will allow the legal use of the land, building or structure; and Due to the irregular dimensions and shape of the subject property, the requested variances appear to be the only possible relief to enable the property to be developed with a single-family detached dwelling as an allowable use. G. The variance is not a request to permit a use of land, buildings or structures that is prohibited in the same zoning district. The applicant proposes to build a type of use (a single-family detached dwelling) that is permitted within the property’s zoning district, Suburban Residential. STAFF CONCLUSION As a result of the foregoing analysis, the Planning and Zoning Staff has reached the conclusion that the applicant’s requests for front and rear yard setbacks are reasonable and should be granted for the following reasons: 1. The applicant proposes to develop an acceptable type of use on the property. 2. The irregular shape and dimensions of the property represent a significant hardship for developing the property, making it impossible to meet the required setbacks/ City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 15 VI. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Based on the Staff Conclusion above, the Planning and Zoning Staff therefore recommends the APPROVAL OF BOTH VARIANCE REQUESTS, with the following three conditions: 1. Size of Dwelling—The proposed single-family detached dwelling shall have at least 1,500 total square feet of heated space in order to meet the minimum required dwelling size within the SR district. 2. Site Plan--The proposed development shall be constructed according to a revised site plan that is very similar to the submitted one, entitled “0 Wilson Avenue”, which was prepared by BRC Land Services as Job No. 025-0024 on 01/28/2026 and revised on 02/24/2026. The revised site plan shall show a driveway in an acceptable location off Wilson Avenue, having a length that would not cause parked vehicles to protrude into the street. 3. Dwelling Facades—The facades of the dwelling shall be constructed of materials which comply with the requirements of the Stockbridge Unified Development Code. City of Stockbridge, GA Community Dev. Dept. / VR-2026-01 Staff Report / March 19, 2026 APRIL 13, 2026 ✔ Ryan Anderson Community Development QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL OF REMNANT TRACT AT 2125 JODECO ROAD. Council District 5. Council consideration of the quitclaim disposal of a portion of the remnant tract at 2125 Jodeco Road, which is owned by the City, to allow the tract to be used by Tidal Wave Auto Spa in the development of its property. O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g) allows governments to convey a small strip of land to an abutting property owner without an auction or bidding process. Section 3.30.170(C) of Municode requires City Council to first declare the strip to be “unserviceable.” The remnant tract protrudes from the south side of Jodeco Road into the property. It was created by Georgia DOT as part of the needed right-of-way for the road. Georgia DOT then quitclaimed the remnant tract to the City, who was to maintain the remnant tract for drainage purposes. The drainage system has been redirected so that the City now only needs to keep about half of the remnant tract. The remaining portion is needed by Tidal Wave Auto Spa in the development and operation of its business. ✔ $0.00 QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL OF REMNANT TRACT AT 2125 JODECO ROAD. APPROVAL. Henry County, GA Overview Legend Parcels Roads 114 ft Parcel ID Property Address District 053-01018015 Class Commercial Owner 2125 JODECO Acreage 0.77 Address RD City/Stockbridge JODECO 158 LLC 120 S ZACK HINTON PARKWAY MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 Land Value: Building Value: Misc Value: Total Value: $603,700 $0 $0 Last 2 Sales Date Price Reason Qual n/a $ n/a n/a n/a $ n/a n/a $603,700 Parcel lines depicted on the maps do not re ect a true and exact representation of property boundaries and should not be relied upon for said purpose. Property boundary lines are depicted on recorded plats available at the Henry County courthouse or can be determined by employing the services of a licensed surveyor. Date created: 3/31/2026 Last Data Uploaded: 3/31/2026 6:49:28 PM Developed by Exhibit B Plats Referenced Plats: SGR/81697982.2 SGR/81697982.2 SGR/81697982.2 Exhibit C Deeds Referenced City’s QCD – Deed Book 19250, Page 101: City’s QCD – Deed Book 19250, Page 103: SGR/81697982.2 PROPOSED QUITCLAIM DISPOSAL OF REMNANT TRACT ADJACENT TO PROPERTY AT 2125 JODECO ROAD Council District 5 CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 13, 2026 Community Development Department Ryan Anderson, Director PROPOSED TRANSFER OF REMNANT TRACT ADJACENT TO PROPERTY AT 2125 JODECO ROAD EXISTING SITUATION: 1. The City of Stockbridge owns a remnant tract of land along Jodeco Road, adjacent to the property at 2125 Jodeco Road, which is part of the Bridges at Jodeco mixed-use development. 2. A portion of the remnant tract is no longer needed by the City. 3. Tidal Wave Auto Spa wishes to purchase and develop the property at 2125 Jodeco Road. 4. Due to the protrusion of the remnant tract into the property at 2125 Jodeco Road, Tidal Wave Auto Spa has found difficulty in preparing a reasonable site plan that would enable it to operate its business. PROPOSAL—The proposal that is being considered is the transfer of a portion of the remnant tract to Tidal Wave Auto Spa via quitclaim deed, if all legal requirements are met and a satisfactory agreement can be reached. VICINITY MAP FOR 2125 JODECO ROAD AERIAL PHOTO FOR 2125 JODECO ROAD DESCRIPTION OF REMNANT TRACT ADJACENT TO PROPERTY AT 2125 JODECO ROAD LOCATION--The remnant tract protrudes from the south side of Jodeco Road and juts into the property at 2125 Jodeco Road. SIZE—0.77 acres. CREATION--It was created by Georgia DOT as part of the needed right-of-way for the I-75 at Jodeco Road intersection improvements. CITY OWNERSHIP--Georgia DOT then quitclaimed the remnant tract via deed to the City of Stockbridge on February 7, 2023 via a quitclaim deed and maintenance agreement. The City was to maintain the tract for drainage purposes. The City did not pay anything to acquire this tract. NO LONGER NEEDED--But the drainage system has been redirected, so the City now only needs to keep about half of the remnant tract. GEORGIA D.O.T. RIGHT-OF-WAY MAP SHOWING REMNANT TRACT (5/19/2008) REMNANT TRACT SHOWING DRAINAGE EASEMENT CITY ABANDONMENT OF DRAINAGE EASEMENT On a plat for the Bridges of Jodeco, dated 01/11/24, a note stated that the City of Stockbridge removed from Tract 11 (the subject property) the easement that was conveyed by Georgia DOT via a quitclaim deed and maintenance agreement from February 7, 2023. Further, the City assumed no responsibility for the overflow or erosion of natural or artificial drains beyond the extent of the street right-of-way. IDENTIFICATION OF THE PORTION OF THE REMNANT TRACT TO BE TRANSFERRED PROPOSED LOT RESURVEY PLAT—Tidal Wave Auto Spa has provided a “Lot Resurvey Plat” (prepared by Gonzalez—Strength & Associates, Inc., April 2026, as Job #25-0777) showing the proposed replat of Tract 11 (which was previously recorded in Plat Book 65, Page 22, along with a portion of road right-of-way). The replat shows the specific portion of the remnant tract that is proposed for transfer. LEGAL DESCRIPTION—Needs to be prepared to identify the boundaries of the specific portion of the remnant tract to be transferred. DIAGRAM OF REMNANT TRACT—FROM “LOT SURVEY REPLAT” Hatched Area—Proposed Portion to be Quitclaimed (About Half of Tract) LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROPOSED LAND TRANSFER PERMISSION BY STATE LAW–Section O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g) allows governments to convey a small strip of land to an abutting property owner without bids or auctions of “narrow strips of land, so shaped or so small as to be incapable of being used independently” where the “conveyances facilitate the enjoyment of the highest and best use of the abutting owner's property”. Transfers of land need to follow the local ordinance. PERMISSION AND REQUIRED ACTION BY MUNICODE--Section 3.30.170(C) of the Stockbridge Municode requires City Council to first declare the strip to be “unserviceable.” Disposition of the property may be made at a public or private sale. NEEDED FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS Before proceeding with the proposed land transfer, the City needs to find and conclude the following: 1. That the City acquired the remnant tract from Georgia DOT via a quitclaim deed, at no cost to the City. 2. That the remnant tract to be transferred is so small and so shaped as to be incapable of being used independently, thereby meeting that state requirement (O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g)). 3. That the proposed conveyance of a portion of the remnant tract would facilitate the enjoyment of the highest and best use of the abutting owner's property, thereby meeting that state requirement (O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g)). 4. That the remnant tract is unserviceable, and that the proposed transfer of a portion of it to Tidal Wave Auto Spa would be in the City’s best interest, thereby meeting the City’s Municode requirement (Section 3.30.170(C)). 5. That the boundaries of the specific portion of the remnant tract to be transferred are acceptable. TO PROCEED WITH THE PROPOSED LAND TRANSFER If the City decides to proceed with the proposed land transfer of the remnant tract to Tidal Wave Auto Spa, it may do so after the following actions have been taken: 1. After all of the required findings and conclusions that were mentioned in the previous slide have been made; and 2. After the proposed quitclaim deed from Tidal Wave Auto Spa has been found to be satisfactory, including the legal description, no payment being due from the City, and an agreement that legal expenses for the review of the proposed quitclaim deed would be paid by Tidal Wave Auto Spa. ADDITIONAL NEEDED ACTIONS BY TIDAL WAVE AUTO SPA After the proposed land transfer has been accomplished between the City and Tidal Wave Auto Spa, and after Tidal Wave Auto Spa has purchased the property at 2125 Jodeco Road, Tidal Wave Auto Spa will need to take the following actions: REPLAT APPLICATION—Tidal Wave Auto Spa will need to submit a replat application to the Community Development Department for its property at 2125 Jodeco Road to change the boundaries of the property to include the newly-acquired portion of the remnant tract from the City. RECORDING OF NEW PLAT—After City Staff have approved the replat application, Tidal Wave Auto Spa will need to have the plat recorded and submit a copy of the recorded plat to the Permitting Office before a land disturbance permit (LDP) may be issued for the development of the property. AFTER RECORDING RETURN TO: Eugene D. Bryant, Esq. Smith, Gambrell & Russell, LLP 1105 W. Peachtree St. NE, Suite 1000 Atlanta, Georgia 30309 Tax Parcel No.: Portion of ROW adjacent to 53-01018015 (Above Space for Recorder’s use only) QUITCLAIM DEED THIS INDENTURE, made this ____ day of _________, 2026, between the CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, a municipal corporation, chartered pursuant to the laws of the State of Georgia (hereinafter called “Grantor”), and SHJ DEVELOPMENT LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (hereinafter called “Grantee”) (the words “Grantor” and “Grantee” to include their respective heirs, successors and assigns where the context requires or permits). WITNESSETH That Grantor, for and in consideration of the sum of Ten and No/100 ($10.00) Dollars in hand paid at and before the sealing and delivery of these presents, and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, does hereby bargain, sell, remise, convey, release and forever quitclaim unto Grantee and Grantee’s successors and assigns, all the right, title, interest, claim or demand which Grantor has or may have had in and to that certain land situated in Henry County, Georgia (the “Property”), as more particularly described on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference. TOGETHER with all the tenements, hereditaments and appurtenances thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD the Property to Grantee and Grantee’s successors and assigns, so that neither Grantor, nor any other person or persons claiming under Grantor, shall at any time, by any means or ways, have, claim or demand any right, title or interest to the Property, its appurtenances or any rights thereof. Reservation and Conditions: This conveyance is made pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 36-37-6(g) and is subject to all existing easements, licenses, franchises, drainage rights and obligations, restrictions, covenants, and matters of record affecting the remnant of the former right-of-way or adjacent property, whether or not shown of record. SGR/81858388.4 The conveyance of the Property is further subject to, and the Grantor expressly reserves, on behalf of itself and all public and private utility providers, the continuing right to maintain, operate, inspect, repair, replace, reconstruct, and access any existing public utilities, stormwater facilities, drainage structures, and related appurtenances now located within, upon, under, or across the Property, together with the right of reasonable ingress and egress for such purposes. Nothing herein shall be deemed to obligate Grantor to relocate any utilities or drainage facilities located within the Property, to improve or modify existing conditions, or to warrant the location, condition, or existence of any utilities, drainage structures, or subsurface improvements affecting the Property. All such rights and reservations shall run with the land and shall be binding upon Grantee and its successors and assigns. [SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS] SGR/81858388.4 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Grantor has caused this Quitclaim Deed to be executed under seal the day and year first above written. Signed, sealed and delivered in the presence of: _________________________________ Print Name:_______________________ Unofficial Witness _________________________________ Notary Public My Commission Expires:____________ [NOTARIAL SEAL] GRANTOR: CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, a municipal corporation, chartered pursuant to the laws of the State of Georgia By: Jayden Williams, Mayor Attest: ___________________________ Cassandra Lester, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: __________________________ City Attorney SGR/81858388.4 EXHIBIT A LEGAL DESCRIPTION A portion of Right of Way of Jodeco Road as being situated in Land Lot 78 of the 6th District in the Town of Stockbridge, Henry County, Georgia and being more particularly described as follows: Commence at a point marking the Northeast corner of Tract 11 as shown on Lot Division for Jodeco Road Lot 11 as recorded in Plat Book 65, Page 222 in the Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court and also lying on the Southerly Right of Way of Jodeco Road, thence run North 66 degrees 21 minutes 21 seconds West along the Southerly Right of Way of said Jodeco Road for a distance of 109.98 feet to a found concrete monument; thence run South 19 degrees 20 minutes 33 seconds East along said Southerly Right of Way for a distance of 27.89 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence continue along the last described course and also said Right of Way for a distance of 43.62 feet a found 5/8 inch rebar; thence run South 70 degrees 53 minutes 03 seconds West along said Southerly Right of Way for a distance of 29.97 feet to a found 5/8 inch rebar; thence run North 19 degrees 09 minutes 32 seconds West along said Southerly Right of Way for a distance of 43.50 feet to a point; thence leaving said Right of Way, run North 70 degrees 39 minutes 27 seconds East for a distance of 29.83 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Said property contains 1,302 square feet or 0.03 acres more or less. As shown on that certain plat entitled ‘Lot Resurvey Plat,’ prepared by Gonzalez-Strength & Associates, Inc., Job No. 25-0777, dated April 2026, to be recorded in the Plat Records of Henry County, Georgia, which plat is incorporated herein by reference for all boundary determinations. The Property is conveyed subject to the Reservations and Conditions set forth in the body of this Quitclaim Deed, which are incorporated herein by this reference. SGR/81858388.4 THE PURPOSE OF THIS PLAT IS TO SHOW THE AREA OF VACATED RIGHT OF WAY TO BE COMBINED WITH TRACT 11 LEGEND ROW VICINITY MAP IPF CON. MON. IPF CON. MON. (RI J GH ODE T O CO F W RO AY AD VA RIE S IPF CAPPED REBAR STAMPED (FDC 00995) OWNER/DEVELOPER 27. ) C) (C) 89' 63'( 38. SITE S6 6°2 1'2 109 1" E . 109 98'(C .79 ) (R) IPS ZONING N1 (C) E 83' 29. 9'27" 0°3 N7 "W '33 0 9°2 IPS IPS S 19 " '32 °09 ROW E ABBREVIATIONS IPF 5/8" REBAR P.O.C. P.O.B. (M) IPF 5/8" REBAR (C) (R) NOTES S 09°2 8'03" W 283.92 '(C&R ) 324.33'(C&R) N 01°44'29" E TRACT 11A 34,709 Sq. Feet ± 0.80 Acres ± LOT RESURVEY PLAT TIDAL WAVE'S ADDITION TO STOCKBRIDGE PLAT NO. 1 BEING A RESURVEY OF TACT 11 OF THE LOT DIVISION FOR JODECO ROAD AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 65, PAGE 22 AND A PORTION OF RIGHT OF WAY ALL BEING SITUATED IN LAND LOT 78 OF THE 6TH DISTRICT OF THE CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE IN HENRY COUNTY, GEORGIA N 89°26'57" W SET NAIL (C) A=13.96' R=150.00' D=5°19'50" B=S 87°53'08" W C=13.95' (R) R=150.00' A=13.95' B=S 87°20'05" W CH=13.95' SET NAIL 81.55'(C&R) PRIVATE ROAD SET NAIL GONZALEZ - STRENGTH & ASSOCIATES, INC. CIVIL ENGINEERING, LAND SURVEYING, PLANNING, TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATION 1550 WOODS OF RIVERCHASE DRIVE - SUITE 200 HOOVER, ALABAMA 35244 DEED REFERENCES SURVEY REFERENCES LSF001440 c Copyright 2025 PHONE: (205) 942-2486 FAX: (205) 942-3033 www.Gonzalez-Strength.com an company APRIL 13, 2026 ✔ Ryan Anderson Community Development (First Reading) SOUTH BERRY STREET RENAMING. Council consideration of a resolution to rename South Berry Street to "Alphonso Thomas Street" to honor the longtime public servant's decades of service to the Stockbridge community. This action supports the City's continued efforts to recognize leaders who have made significant historical and civic contributions to the City. In 2015, former Councilmember Alphonso Thomas spearheaded the initiative to rename the former North Berry Street and the former Railroad Street as M. L. King, Sr. Heritage Trail. Alphonso Thomas dedicated more than 35 years to public service in Stockbridge, serving as a Council member, as Mayor Pro Tem, as a civic leader, and a as a key figure in preserving the City's African-American history and its connection to the King family. ✔ SIGNED BY: SHAWN EDMONDSON SIGNED BY: FRANK S. MILAZI SIGNED BY: QUINTON WASHINGTON $0.00 SOUTH BERRY STREET RENAMING. APPROVAL. SIGNED BY: R. RYAN ANDERSON Proposed Renaming of South Berry Street to Alphonso Thomas Street Ryan Anderson, MPPA, CPM Director, Community Development Stockbridge Council Session Meeting April 13, 2026 Background • The consideration of Berry Street for renaming is grounded in prior City initiatives and longstanding planning decisions focused on cultural recognition and community identity. Street naming serves not only a functional purpose but also as a way to preserve and reflect the City’s historical and cultural legacy within the public realm. • In 2015, the City of Stockbridge initiated the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail as part of a broader effort to recognize its identity as the ancestral home of the King family. This initiative positioned cultural recognition as a key component of the City’s downtown revitalization and placemaking strategy. • The initiative formally began in January 2015 with the creation of a study committee tasked with identifying an appropriate corridor for commemorative naming. The committee evaluated visibility, accessibility, and potential impacts to ensure the selected corridor would balance both symbolic and practical considerations. • Under the leadership of Mayor Pro Tem Alphonso Thomas, the initiative advanced through a series of meetings and public engagement efforts. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the process from initial concept to a formally adopted City initiative. • Following this evaluation, Berry Street—along with North Berry Street and Railroad Street—was selected due to its central location within downtown, its visibility, and its relatively minimal impact on surrounding properties. • The corridor was formally designated as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail in September 2015, establishing Berry Street as a recognized route for cultural and historical commemoration within the City. • This prior designation demonstrates that Berry Street has already been evaluated and determined to be an appropriate location for commemorative recognition, supporting its continued use for honoring individuals such as Councilman Alphonso Thomas. PURPOSE OF REQUEST • The City of Stockbridge is requesting approval of a resolution on first reading to rename Berry Street to Alphonso Thomas Street in honor of Councilman Alphonso Thomas and his decades of dedicated public service. This action reflects the City’s continued commitment to recognizing individuals who have made significant civic and historical contributions. • Street renaming is a formal legislative action that allows municipalities to embed recognition directly into the physical and cultural fabric of the community. As a permanent feature of the public right-of-way, a street name reflects the City’s history, values, and collective identity. • The proposal builds upon the established precedent of Berry Street as a commemorative corridor through its designation as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail, continuing the City’s efforts to align its physical environment with its historical narrative. • This request is also presented in recognition of Councilman Thomas’s passing in December 2025. His decades of service, including his leadership as Mayor Pro Tem and his role in advancing key community initiatives, warrant formal and lasting recognition. • The renaming of Berry Street represents not only an act of commemoration, but also an opportunity to reinforce the City’s broader vision of preserving its heritage, honoring its leaders, and strengthening a sense of place within the downtown area. LOCATION AND CONTEXT • Berry Street is located within the historic downtown area of the City of Stockbridge and functions as a local connector between 2nd Street and Wilson Avenue, with a direct connection to the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail. • The corridor is surrounded by established residential neighborhoods and institutional uses, including Trinity United Methodist Church, Floyd Chapel Baptist Church, Stockbridge Elementary School, and the future Henry County STEM High School (opening August 2027). • Land use along the corridor is predominantly low-density residential with limited commercial activity, supporting its role as a neighborhood-scale street rather than a major commercial or arterial corridor. • Berry Street operates as a low-volume corridor that provides local access while maintaining a manageable traffic environment, which reduces complexity and supports ease of implementation for renaming. • Its central location, visibility, and proximity to key community institutions reinforce its suitability as a corridor for commemorative naming within the City’s downtown area. • Berry Street has established historical and planning significance within the City of Stockbridge and has previously been designated as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail, reinforcing its role as a visible and appropriate corridor for commemorative recognition. • Its location within the Main Street Program area and the downtown core supports its use as a commemorative corridor, allowing recognition efforts to be integrated into a highly visible and community-centered environment. ANALYSIS • A parcel-level analysis identified five parcels along the corridor, of which only two—144 and 146 South Berry Street—would require address updates, including changes to mailing, utility, and emergency service records. • The limited number of impacted properties significantly reduces administrative burden, and implementation can be efficiently managed through coordination with relevant agencies. • The remaining parcels are undeveloped and would be assigned addresses under the new street name at the time of future development, eliminating the need for additional changes and supporting long-term consistency. • Overall, the proposed renaming is considered to have minimal impact due to the small number of affected properties, the localized nature of the corridor, and the absence of major commercial or high-intensity uses. • The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the use of downtown corridors for commemorative purposes, supporting broader goals of cultural recognition and community identity. STREET RENAMING PROCEDURE AND COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS • The proposed renaming has been evaluated for consistency with the City of Stockbridge’s Unified Development Code, Section 16.10(A)(3), which establishes a formal process to ensure transparency, public participation, and administrative coordination. • The request has been initiated by the City Council, satisfying the ordinance requirements for initiating a street renaming action. • The process requires mailed notice to affected property owners and publication of a public hearing in the City’s legal organ, as well as posting on the City’s website and at City Hall. • A public hearing will be conducted by the Mayor and City Council, allowing all interested parties the opportunity to provide input prior to final action. • The ordinance establishes review criteria including property owner impact, public safety, duplication of street names, historical significance, and administrative feasibility. • Based on staff analysis, the request meets these criteria, with minimal property impact, no known conflicts, and no adverse effects on emergency services. • Coordination with agencies including E-911, USPS, Henry County, and utility providers will ensure consistent updates across all addressing and service systems. • Accordingly, the proposed renaming is consistent with the City’s adopted procedures and is appropriate for consideration by the Mayor and City Council. • Implementation of the street renaming will require coordination among multiple agencies to ensure consistency across all addressing, mapping, and service systems, while minimizing disruption and maintaining public safety. COORDINATIO N REQUIREMEN TS • Coordination will occur with the United States Postal Service (USPS), Henry County GIS and addressing, and E-911 emergency services to update mailing records, mapping systems, and emergency response databases. • Additional coordination will include the Henry County Tax Assessor and utility providers to update property records, billing systems, and service accounts associated with affected properties. • The City of Stockbridge Public Works Department will be responsible for updating street signage, ensuring consistency with all database and mapping updates. • The City will also provide direct notification to affected property owners to assist with updating personal and administrative records. • Given the limited number of impacted properties, coordination is expected to be manageable and can be completed efficiently through standard administrative procedures. STAFF FINDINGS Berry Street is a historically significant corridor within downtown Stockbridge and has been previously designated as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail, reinforcing its suitability for commemorative naming. The proposed renaming will result in minimal impact, affecting only two developed properties, while all remaining parcels are either undeveloped or not addressed off Berry Street. The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the use of downtown corridors for cultural recognition, placemaking, and community identity. The proposal meets the City’s street renaming criteria, including property owner impact, public safety, administrative feasibility, and historical significance. Councilman Alphonso Thomas’s decades of leadership and service warrant formal recognition within the public realm, particularly given his role in advancing the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail initiative. Based on these findings, the proposed renaming is appropriate, consistent with City practices, and in the best interest of the community. RECOMMENDATIO N • Based on the analysis and staff findings presented, staff recommends approval of the resolution on first reading to rename Berry Street to Alphonso Thomas Street. The request is consistent with the City’s adopted procedures, results in minimal impact— affecting only two properties—and represents an appropriate and meaningful way to honor Councilman Thomas’s legacy and contributions to the community SOUTH BERRY STREET RENAMING COUNCILMAN THOMAS Community Development Department Planning & Zoning Division I. BACKGROUND The consideration of South Berry Street for renaming is grounded in prior City initiatives, historical planning decisions, and the City of Stockbridge’s ongoing efforts to recognize individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the community. Street naming and renaming serve not only as functional elements of the built environment, but also as a mechanism for institutionalizing a city’s heritage and codifying its historical and cultural identity within the public realm. For the City of Stockbridge, the establishment of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail represents a significant and deliberate effort to assert and preserve its historical identity. As a smaller municipality within a larger metropolitan region, the City has sought to distinguish its unique legacy, particularly its designation as the ancestral home of the King family. Through this initiative, cultural recognition became a foundational component of the City’s broader downtown revitalization strategy, linking historical commemoration with placemaking and community identity. The Heritage Trail initiative formally concluded with legislative adoption during the City Council Meeting on September 14, 2015, marking a pivotal shift in the City’s approach to commemorative practices. However, the foundation for this action began several months earlier through a formal legislative process initiated in January 2015. In January 2015, the Stockbridge City Council authorized the creation of a study committee to evaluate the renaming of a street in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This resolution served as the catalyst for the commemorative initiative and formally recognized Stockbridge’s historical connection to the King family. The resolution also established a research-based mandate for identifying an appropriate corridor that would provide the necessary prominence and dignity to honor this legacy. Mayor Pro Tem Alphonso Thomas served as the primary advocate and guiding figure for the initiative. Throughout the spring and summer of 2015, he led a series of meetings and discussions with the study committee to ensure that the effort was grounded in historical accuracy, strategic planning, and community relevance. His leadership was instrumental in advancing the initiative from a conceptual proposal to a vetted municipal strategy. The study committee was tasked with evaluating the City’s street network and identifying a corridor suitable for commemorative naming. This process required balancing symbolic significance with practical considerations, including visibility, accessibility, and potential impacts to property owners and businesses. Following this evaluation, a multi-segment corridor was identified as the most appropriate location for the Heritage Trail. This corridor included North Berry Street, South Berry Street, and Railroad Street. These segments were selected due to their central location within downtown Stockbridge, their visibility, and their ability to serve as a catalyst for both cultural recognition and economic revitalization. 1 City leadership recognized that embedding the King family legacy within these corridors would not only honor historical significance but also contribute to strengthening the identity and vitality of the downtown area. As part of the public engagement process, the City hosted a community “meet and greet” at the Merle Manders Conference Center, providing an opportunity to present the rationale behind the corridor selection and to engage residents and stakeholders in the vision for the Heritage Trail. The initiative also received notable support from the King family, whose endorsement provided both historical validation and moral significance to the project. Correspondence presented to the City Council reflected the family’s appreciation and anticipation regarding the recognition of their ancestral ties to Stockbridge. This endorsement reinforced the City’s efforts and further legitimized the commemorative initiative. During the June 23, 2015 Work Session, North and South Berry Street were formally identified as the preferred corridor. Council discussions emphasized that Berry Street runs through the heart of downtown Stockbridge, lies within the Main Street Program boundaries, and represents a highly visible and accessible location for commemorative designation. Additionally, the corridor was identified as having relatively minimal impact on adjacent properties compared to other potential alternatives, making it both a symbolic and practical choice. The corridor was ultimately designated as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail, establishing South Berry Street as a recognized route for cultural and historical commemoration. This designation reinforced the corridor’s role as a key component of the City’s downtown framework and linked it to broader efforts related to heritage recognition, placemaking, and community identity. This prior evaluation and designation demonstrate that South Berry Street has already been carefully considered by the City as an appropriate location for commemorative recognition. The corridor’s selection in 2015 reflects a deliberate planning decision that balanced historical significance, visibility, community engagement, and minimal disruption. As a result, South Berry Street remains a logical and appropriate location for future commemorative naming initiatives, including the current proposal to honor Councilman Alphonso Thomas. II. PURPOSE OF REQUEST The City of Stockbridge is requesting approval of a resolution on first reading to rename South Berry Street to Alphonso Thomas Street, in honor of Councilman Alphonso Thomas and his decades of dedicated public service to the community. This action supports the City’s continued commitment to recognizing individuals who have made significant civic and historical contributions. The purpose of this request is to formally consider the renaming of Berry Street in recognition of Councilman Thomas’s longstanding leadership, service, and impact on the City of Stockbridge. Street renaming is a formal legislative action that allows municipalities to embed recognition of individuals directly into the physical and cultural fabric of the community. As a permanent feature 2 of the public right-of-way, a street name serves not only as a navigational tool, but also as a reflection of the City’s history, values, and collective identity. The proposed renaming seeks to establish a permanent and visible tribute within the public realm, reinforce the City’s commitment to honoring civic leadership, and strengthen community identity through place-based recognition. This request is consistent with the City’s prior use of commemorative naming as a planning and placemaking tool, particularly within the downtown area where visibility and cultural significance are most strongly expressed. The proposal also builds upon the City’s established precedent of utilizing Berry Street as a corridor for cultural and historical recognition, as demonstrated through its designation as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail. In this context, the renaming represents a continuation of the City’s intentional efforts to align its physical environment with its historical narrative and civic values. Additionally, this request is presented in recognition of Councilman Thomas’s passing in December 2025. His decades of service to the City, including his leadership as Mayor Pro Tem and his role in advancing key community initiatives, reflect a level of commitment that warrants formal and lasting recognition. Notably, his leadership was instrumental in advancing the original MLK Sr. Heritage Trail initiative, further strengthening the connection between his legacy and the Berry Street corridor. The renaming of Berry Street therefore represents not only an act of commemoration, but also an opportunity to reinforce the City’s broader vision of preserving its heritage, honoring its leaders, and strengthening a sense of place within the downtown area. Through this action, the City affirms its commitment to recognizing individuals whose contributions have had a lasting impact on the community while ensuring that their legacy remains embedded within the public realm for future generations. III. LOCATION AND CONTEXT South Berry Street is located within the historic downtown area of the City of Stockbridge and functions as a local connector within an established network of residential, civic, and institutional uses. As illustrated in Exhibit A, the corridor extends between 2nd Street and Wilson Avenue and connects directly to the M.L.K. Sr. Heritage Trail, a previously designated commemorative corridor within the City. This connection places Berry Street within a broader framework of streets that have already been identified by the City as having cultural and historical significance. The surrounding area reflects a well-established community fabric characterized by a mix of residential neighborhoods and institutional uses that serve the local population. Nearby land uses include Trinity United Methodist Church, Floyd Chapel Baptist Church, Stockbridge Elementary School, and Henry County STEM High School, which is scheduled to open in August 2027 at 109 South Lee Street in Stockbridge, Georgia. These institutions contribute to consistent daily activity along the corridor and reinforce its role as a community-oriented environment. The presence of schools and places of worship further enhances the visibility and recognition of the corridor, making it an appropriate location for civic and commemorative designation. 3 From a land use perspective, the corridor is defined by predominantly low-density residential development, with limited commercial activity. This contrasts with higher-intensity corridors such as North Henry Boulevard, which function as primary commercial and transportation routes. The relatively low intensity of development along Berry Street supports its classification as a neighborhood-scale street, intended primarily for local access rather than regional traffic movement. In terms of connectivity, South Berry Street provides important local access between adjacent streets and community destinations while maintaining a manageable scale of traffic. Its function as a low-volume corridor contributes to a more stable and predictable environment, which is beneficial when considering changes such as street renaming. Unlike major arterials or collector roads, the limited number of access points and lower traffic volumes reduce the complexity of implementation and minimize potential disruptions. The corridor’s integration into the downtown area also enhances its visibility within the community. While not a major commercial corridor, Berry Street remains centrally located and accessible, allowing it to serve as a recognizable and meaningful location for honoring individuals who have contributed to the City. Its proximity to key institutions, including the future Henry County STEM High School, and its connection to the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail further reinforce its symbolic and long-term significance within the City’s broader historical and cultural context. Furthermore, the limited scale of development along this segment contributes to its suitability for renaming, as fewer properties are directly impacted. This localized context supports the finding that the proposed renaming will result in minimal disruption to property owners and service providers while maintaining a high degree of visibility and recognition within the community. Taken together, the corridor’s location, surrounding land use pattern, institutional presence, future educational investment, and connectivity characteristics support its designation as an appropriate and effective location for commemorative street renaming. 4 5 IV. ANALYSIS South Berry Street has established historical and planning significance within the City of Stockbridge and has been previously evaluated as a corridor appropriate for commemorative designation. Its selection as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail demonstrates its visibility within the downtown core, its cultural relevance, and its alignment with the City’s broader efforts to incorporate historical recognition into the public realm. This designation reflects a deliberate planning decision by the City to utilize centrally located corridors as platforms for cultural expression and community identity. The corridor’s location within the Main Street Program area further reinforces its importance within the City’s downtown revitalization framework. As a visible and accessible street within the downtown area, South Berry Street serves as an effective location for commemorative naming, allowing recognition efforts to be integrated into areas of daily activity and public interaction. This established precedent supports its continued use as a corridor for honoring individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the community. A parcel-level review of the South Berry Street corridor was conducted to assess potential impacts associated with the proposed renaming. The analysis identified a total of five parcels along the corridor, of which two are developed and three are undeveloped. The two developed parcels that would be directly impacted by the proposed renaming are: • • 144 South Berry Street 146 South Berry Street These properties would require address changes if the street is renamed, including updates to mailing addresses, utility accounts, tax records, and emergency services databases. While this represents a direct impact to affected property owners, the limited number of impacted parcels significantly reduces the overall burden associated with the renaming. From an implementation perspective, the scope of required changes is manageable and can be addressed through coordinated efforts between the City and relevant agencies. Because the number of affected properties is minimal, the administrative complexity typically associated with street renaming—such as widespread address updates and business impacts—is substantially reduced. The three undeveloped parcels do not currently have active structures or established addresses and would therefore experience minimal impact. Any future development on these parcels would be assigned addresses under the new street name at the time of permitting. As a result, no future address changes would be required, and the renaming would not create additional administrative burden. This condition is consistent with standard addressing practices and further supports the conclusion that the overall impact of the proposed renaming is limited. Overall, the proposed renaming is considered to have minimal impact due to the limited number of affected properties, the localized nature of the corridor, and the absence of significant 6 commercial or high-intensity uses. As shown in Exhibit A, South Berry Street serves a relatively small number of residential and institutional properties and does not function as a major commercial or arterial corridor. This context supports the finding that the renaming can be implemented with minimal disruption to the surrounding community. The proposed renaming is also consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the designation of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the use of downtown corridors for commemorative purposes. The request aligns with the City’s participation in the Main Street Program and supports broader goals related to cultural recognition, placemaking, and the reinforcement of community identity within the downtown area. V. STREET RENAMING PROCEDURE AND COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS The proposed renaming of South Berry Street has been evaluated for consistency with the City of Stockbridge’s adopted street renaming procedures as outlined in Section 16.10(A)(3) of the Unified Development Code. This section establishes a formal and uniform process for the renaming of public streets to ensure transparency, public participation, and administrative coordination. The ordinance provides that street renaming may be initiated by the Mayor, a member of the City Council, the City Manager, City staff, or through a formal petition process. In this case, the request is initiated by the City Council, which satisfies the initiation requirements outlined in the ordinance. In accordance with the ordinance, the City is required to provide mailed notice to all affected property owners, businesses, and any applicable homeowners’ associations not less than thirty (30) days prior to the required public hearing. The notice must include the current street name, the proposed new street name, the reason for the change, and the date, time, and location of the public hearing, along with instructions for submitting comments. The ordinance further requires that the City publish notice of the public hearing in the City’s legal organ and provide additional notice through posting on the City’s website and at City Hall. These requirements ensure that the public is adequately informed and provided with an opportunity to participate in the decision-making process. A public hearing must be conducted by the Mayor and City Council prior to the adoption of any street renaming ordinance. During this hearing, all interested parties are afforded the opportunity to be heard, and any written comments received are included as part of the official record. Following the public hearing, the Mayor and City Council may approve, modify, or deny the proposed street renaming. The ordinance also establishes specific review standards to guide the decision-making process. These include consideration of the level of support or opposition from affected property owners and businesses, potential duplication or confusion with existing street names, public safety considerations, historical or cultural significance, administrative and implementation costs, and any other factors related to the public health, safety, and welfare. 7 Based on staff’s analysis, the proposed renaming of Berry Street is consistent with these review standards. The request involves minimal impact to property owners, does not present known conflicts with existing street names, and will not adversely affect emergency response operations with proper coordination. Additionally, the historical and civic significance associated with Councilman Alphonso Thomas provides a strong basis for commemorative designation. Finally, the ordinance requires coordination with external agencies, including Henry County E911, the United States Postal Service, local utility providers, and Henry County government prior to implementation. These coordination efforts will ensure that addressing systems, emergency services, and public infrastructure are updated in a consistent and timely manner. Accordingly, the proposed renaming of South Berry Street may proceed in compliance with the City’s adopted street renaming procedures and is appropriate for consideration by the Mayor and City Council. VI. COORDINATION REQUIREMENTS If approved, implementation of the street renaming will require coordinated action among multiple agencies and departments to ensure consistency, accuracy, and continuity across all public and private systems that rely on addressing information. Effective coordination will be essential to minimize disruption, maintain public safety, and facilitate a smooth transition for affected property owners and service providers. Primary coordination will occur with the United States Postal Service (USPS) to ensure that all mailing addresses associated with Berry Street are updated within the national postal database. This step is critical to maintaining uninterrupted mail delivery and ensuring that both existing and future correspondence is accurately routed. Coordination with Henry County GIS and the addressing division will be required to update official address records, parcel data, and mapping systems. These updates will ensure consistency across countywide databases and support integration with other governmental systems that rely on accurate geospatial and addressing information. A key component of the implementation process will involve coordination with Henry County Emergency Services (E-911) to update the emergency response database. Accurate addressing is essential for emergency dispatch and response, and updates must be completed in a timely manner to prevent any disruption to public safety services. Verification of the updated street name within emergency systems will be a priority prior to full implementation. The Henry County Tax Assessor’s Office will also require notification to update property records associated with affected parcels. This will ensure that property ownership records, tax billing information, and official documentation reflect the new street name. Coordination with utility providers, including water, sewer, electric, gas, and telecommunications services, will be necessary to update service account records and billing systems. This will help ensure continuity of service and prevent administrative issues for affected property owners. 8 At the municipal level, the City of Stockbridge Public Works Department will be responsible for the removal and replacement of existing street signage and the installation of new signage reflecting the approved street name. Signage updates will be coordinated to align with database updates to avoid inconsistencies in wayfinding and navigation. In addition to agency coordination, the City will provide direct notification to affected property owners to inform them of the street name change and provide guidance on updating personal records, including driver’s licenses, insurance documents, and other address-dependent information. Implementation of the street renaming will be conducted in a phased and coordinated manner to ensure that all systems are updated concurrently and that any potential confusion is minimized. Given the limited number of affected properties, the coordination effort is expected to be manageable and can be completed efficiently with proper interagency communication. Overall, the coordination requirements associated with the proposed renaming are limited in scope and can be effectively addressed through standard administrative procedures, supporting the conclusion that the renaming can be implemented with minimal disruption to the community. Based on the analysis presented herein, staff finds that South Berry Street is a historically significant corridor within the downtown area of the City of Stockbridge that has previously been designated for commemorative purposes. Its inclusion as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail demonstrates its established role as a visible and culturally relevant corridor within the City’s public realm and reinforces its suitability for continued use in honoring individuals of significance. Staff further finds that the proposed renaming of South Berry Street would result in minimal impact to the surrounding community. A parcel-level analysis indicates that only two developed properties would be required to undergo address changes, while three undeveloped parcels would experience no immediate impact. The limited number of affected properties, combined with the localized nature of the corridor and the absence of high-intensity commercial uses, supports the conclusion that the renaming can be implemented with minimal disruption. The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the designation of South Berry Street as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the City’s broader use of downtown corridors for commemorative naming. The proposal also aligns with the City’s participation in the Main Street Program and supports ongoing efforts related to downtown revitalization, placemaking, and the reinforcement of community identity. Staff additionally finds that the request is consistent with the City’s established street renaming procedures, which require consideration of factors such as property owner impact, public safety, administrative feasibility, and historical or cultural significance. Based on staff’s review, the proposed renaming satisfies these criteria, as it presents minimal impact, does not introduce known conflicts with existing street names, and can be implemented through standard coordination processes without adversely affecting emergency services or public infrastructure. 9 Furthermore, staff finds that Councilman Alphonso Thomas’s longstanding service and contributions to the City of Stockbridge warrant formal recognition within the public realm. His decades of leadership, civic engagement, and role in advancing community initiatives—including his involvement in the establishment of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail—reflect a level of commitment and impact that is consistent with the City’s criteria for commemorative naming. Taken together, these findings support the conclusion that the proposed renaming of Berry Street is appropriate, consistent with established City practices, and in the best interest of the community. VII. STAFF FINDINGS Based on the analysis presented herein, staff finds that South Berry Street is a historically significant corridor within the downtown area of the City of Stockbridge that has previously been designated for commemorative purposes. Its inclusion as part of the Martin Luther King, Sr. Heritage Trail demonstrates its established role as a visible and culturally relevant corridor within the City’s public realm and reinforces its suitability for continued use in honoring individuals of significance. Staff further finds that the proposed renaming of South Berry Street would result in minimal impact to the surrounding community. A parcel-level analysis indicates that only two developed properties would be required to undergo address changes, while three undeveloped parcels would experience no immediate impact. The limited number of affected properties, combined with the localized nature of the corridor and the absence of high-intensity commercial uses, supports the conclusion that the renaming can be implemented with minimal disruption. The request is consistent with prior City actions and planning initiatives, including the designation of South Berry Street as part of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail and the City’s broader use of downtown corridors for commemorative naming. The proposal also aligns with the City’s participation in the Main Street Program and supports ongoing efforts related to downtown revitalization, placemaking, and the reinforcement of community identity. Staff additionally finds that the request is consistent with the City’s established street renaming procedures, which require consideration of factors such as property owner impact, public safety, administrative feasibility, and historical or cultural significance. Based on staff’s review, the proposed renaming satisfies these criteria, as it presents minimal impact, does not introduce known conflicts with existing street names, and can be implemented through standard coordination processes without adversely affecting emergency services or public infrastructure. Furthermore, staff finds that Councilman Alphonso Thomas’s longstanding service and contributions to the City of Stockbridge warrant formal recognition within the public realm. His decades of leadership, civic engagement, and role in advancing community initiatives—including his involvement in the establishment of the MLK Sr. Heritage Trail—reflect a level of commitment and impact that is consistent with the City’s criteria for commemorative naming. 10 Taken together, these findings support the conclusion that the proposed renaming of South Berry Street is appropriate, consistent with established City practices, and in the best interest of the community. 11 APRIL 13, 2026 ✔ Ryan Anderson Community Development TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2026-02. Consideration of a text amendment to the Unified Development Code (UDC) to establish a process for requesting, initiating, approving, and carrying out the renaming of streets within the Stockbridge City Limits. The UDC does not currently contain a defined pathway for residents, property owners, or the City to petition for a street name change, nor does it outline review criteria or agency responsibilities. Establishing a clear, standardized process would help to ensure the transparency, consistency, and coordination of this process across departments. ✔ $0.00 TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2026-02. APPROVAL STATE OF GEORGIA HENRY COUNTY CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA ORDINANCE NO. _________ AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA, TO AMEND THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA, TITLE 5 (PUBLIC WORKS), CHAPTER 5.04, ARTICLE I, BY ESTABLISHING SECTION 5.04.170, ENTITLED “STREET AND PUBLIC FACILITY RENAMING PROCEDURES”;TO PROVIDE A UNIFORM PROCESS FOR THE NAMING AND RENAMING OF PUBLIC STREETS, PARKS, BUILDINGS, AND OTHER PUBLIC FACILITIES; TO INCORPORATE AND CROSS-REFERENCE THE CITY FACILITIES, PARKS, AND STREETS NAMING POLICY AND SECTION 16.10 OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE; TO ESTABLISH PETITION THRESHOLDS, NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING REQUIREMENTS, REVIEW STANDARDS, AND IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES; AND FOR OTHER LAWFUL PURPOSES. WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Stockbridge desires to facilitate responsible community growth and provide housing and care options that meet the needs of residents; and WHEREAS, Article IX, Section II, Paragraph IV of the Georgia Constitution empowers the governing authority of each county and of each municipality to adopt plans and exercise the power of zoning; and WHEREAS, the City of Stockbridge is a municipal corporation duly organized and existing under the laws of the State of Georgia; and WHEREAS, the City of Stockbridge is a municipal corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Georgia and is authorized by its Charter and general law to regulate and control the naming and renaming of public streets, rights-of-way, and City-owned or City-maintained facilities within its corporate limits; and WHEREAS, the naming and renaming of public streets and facilities affect residents, property owners, businesses, emergency services, navigation, and the historical and civic identity of the City; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council find that a transparent, deliberate, and uniform legislative process is necessary to ensure consistency, public participation, and protection of the public interest; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA, AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. AMENDMENT TO THE CODE OF ORDINANCES. The Code of Ordinances of the City of Stockbridge, Georgia, Title 5 (Public Works), Chapter 5.04, Article I, is hereby amended by establishing a new Section 5.04.170, entitled “Street and Public Facility Renaming Procedures,” to read as follows: Sec. 5.04.170. – Street and Public Facility Renaming Procedures. (a) Purpose and Intent. The purpose of this section is to establish a clear, equitable, and uniform process for the naming and renaming of public streets, parks, buildings, and other public facilities, recognizing the long-term impacts such actions have on the community, public safety, and historical preservation. (b) Applicability. 1. This section applies to: a. All publicly dedicated streets, roads, alleys, and rights-of-way accepted for maintenance by the City; and b. All parks, buildings, structures, complexes, and facilities owned, operated, or maintained by the City of Stockbridge. 2. No street or public facility shall be named or renamed except by ordinance adopted by the Mayor and City Council in accordance with this section. (c) Relationship to Unified Development Code Section 16.10 and City Naming Policy. 1. Unified Development Code Coordination. Street naming standards applicable to new streets and subdivisions, including spelling conventions, suffixes, duplication limitations, and sign requirements, shall be governed by Section 16.10 (Street Names and Sign Requirements) of the Unified Development Code. 2. Distinction of Authority. a. Section 16.10 shall apply to the initial naming of streets during subdivision and development review. b. This Section 5.04.170 shall apply exclusively to the renaming of existing streets and public facilities following dedication, acceptance, or public use. 3. Consistency Requirement. Any proposed street renaming under this section shall comply with the technical and public safety standards of Section 16.10, including avoidance of duplication, emergency response compatibility, and sign requirements. 4. City Facilities, Parks, and Streets Naming Policy. a. The City Facilities, Parks, and Streets Naming Policy, as adopted and amended by the Mayor and City Council, is hereby incorporated by reference for guidance and substantive review criteria. b. In the event of a conflict between this section and the policy, this Code of Ordinances shall control. (d) Initiation of Requests. A proposal to rename a street or public facility may be initiated by: 1. The Mayor; 2. Any member of the City Council; 3. The City Manager or designee; or 4. A citizen initiated petition meeting the requirements of this section. (e) Citizen Initiated Street Renaming — Petition Threshold. 1. Any citizen-initiated request to rename an existing street or portion thereof shall require a petition signed by not less than seventy-five percent (75%) of the property owners whose property abuts the affected street segment, as reflected in the most recent Henry County tax digest. 2. The petition shall include: a. The existing street name and proposed new name; b. A map identifying the affected street segment; c. Printed names, property addresses, and signatures of qualifying property owners; d. A written statement explaining the basis for the request. 3. Petitions failing to meet the required threshold shall not proceed to public hearing. (f) Public Facility, Park, and Building Renaming. 1. Proposals to rename public facilities may be initiated by City Council or by written request submitted to the City Manager. 2. No fixed numerical petition threshold shall apply; however, the Mayor and City Council shall determine whether sufficient public interest and community support exist to warrant consideration. 3. Facilities named by deed restriction shall not be eligible for renaming. (g) Prohibitions and Limitations. 1. No street or public facility shall be named or renamed for private benefit or commercial promotion. 2. No street or public facility shall be named after: a. A seated elected or appointed official; or b. An individual who has been deceased for less than one (1) year, unless waived by a supermajority vote of the City Council. 3. Street names that create duplication, confusion, or public safety concerns shall not be approved. (h) Notice and Public Hearing. 1. At least one (1) public hearing shall be conducted prior to adoption of any ordinance renaming a street or public facility. 2. Notice shall be provided by mailed, published, and posted notice in accordance with City requirements and applicable law. (i) Findings and Decision. In adopting any ordinance renaming a street, the Mayor and City Council shall make a finding that: The Mayor and City Council find that the proposed street renaming complies with Section 5.04.170 of the Code of Ordinances and the technical naming and sign standards of Section 16.10 of the Unified Development Code. The Mayor and City Council may approve, deny, or modify any proposed renaming by ordinance. (j) Appeal of Decision. 1. Right to Appeal. Any person who is aggrieved by a final decision of the Mayor and City Council approving or denying a request to rename a street or public facility under this section may appeal such decision pursuant to this subsection. 2. Appeal Authority. Because the approval or denial of a street or public facility renaming is a legislative act adopted by ordinance, appeals shall be limited to procedural and legal compliance and shall be heard exclusively by the Mayor and City Council. 3. Filing of Appeal. An appeal shall be filed in writing with the City Clerk no later than thirty (30) calendar days following adoption of the renaming ordinance. The appeal shall include: a. The name and address of the appellant; b. Identification of the ordinance being appealed; c. A statement of the specific grounds for appeal; and d. Any supporting documentation. 4. Scope of Review. The appeal shall be limited to determining whether: a. The procedures set forth in this section were properly followed; b. Required notice and public hearing requirements were met; and c. The decision was adopted in compliance with applicable provisions of the Code of Ordinances and state law. 5. Hearing on Appeal. The Mayor and City Council shall consider the appeal at a duly noticed public meeting. No new evidence shall be accepted unless the Mayor and City Council determine that such evidence was unavailable at the time of the original public hearing. 6. Decision on Appeal. Following consideration of the appeal, the Mayor and City Council may: a. Affirm the original decision; b. Modify the original decision; or c. Remand the matter for additional consideration consistent with this section. The decision of the Mayor and City Council on appeal shall be final. 7. Judicial Review. Nothing herein shall be construed to limit any right to seek judicial review as provided by Georgia law. (k) Implementation. 1. The effective date shall be specified in the adopting ordinance. 2. The City Manager or designee shall coordinate implementation with emergency services, postal authorities, utilities, and other affected agencies. 3. A reasonable transition period recognizing both old and new names may be authorized. SECTION 2. Severability. To the extent any portion of this Ordinance is declared to be invalid, unenforceable, or non-binding, that shall not affect the remaining portions of this Ordinance. SECTION 3. Repeal of Conflicting Provisions. All City Ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinances shall be repealed. SECTION 4. Attorney Authorization. The City Attorney, backed by the City's charter and with the explicit endorsement of the City Council, is authorized to make necessary amendments to contracts, ordinances, resolutions, and documents to align them with the intent of the City Council and ensure compliance with all pertinent city laws and regulations. SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption by the City Council of the City of Stockbridge as provided in the City Charter. SO ORDAINED, this _____ day of ____________________, 2026. CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE, GEORGIA Jayden Williams, Mayor ATTEST: Cassandra Lester, Interim City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: Quinton Washington, City Attorney