Cherokee County public meetings in 2025

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss regular agenda items. No specific items or decisions are listed on the agenda. After the public portion, an executive session will follow.

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on workforce housing ordinance amendments and the abandonment of a portion of River Glen Drive. The board will consider reappointments to the Development Authority and other boards, approve a consent agenda including donations and easements, and decide on multiple county manager items. These include a $2.4 million Motorola PremierOne subscription, a $1.2 million purchase of two asphalt pavers, a $350,000 purchase of Ball Ground Gymnasium, and a pre-construction agreement for the Justice Center expansion. A resolution to amend compensation for elected officials is also on the agenda.

• Public hearing on workforce housing ordinance amendments (Articles 4, 7, Table 7.2)
• Motorola PremierOne and Flex Jail system subscription: $2,435,915 over five years
• Purchase of two asphalt pavers for Public Works: $1,239,869
• Intergovernmental agreement to purchase Ball Ground Gymnasium for $350,000
• Pre-construction services agreement for Justice Center Expansion & North Street Gateway Development

Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing

The Cherokee County Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 11, 2025, to consider three variance cases. These include a density reduction from 46 to 36 units on a 2.02-acre property, allowing backyard chickens on a 17,000 sq. ft. lot, and granting a 20-foot easement for two lots. The board will also approve the minutes from its November 11, 2025 meeting.

• Case #25-12-067V: Variance to reduce site density from 46 to 36 units on a 2.02-acre property (Parks Huff for Province Development, BOC Dist. 3)
• Case #25-12-068V: Variance to allow backyard chickens on a 17,000 sq. ft. residential property instead of the required 20,000 sq. ft. (Collin Schutz, BOC Dist. 2)
• Case #25-12-069V: Variance to allow a 20-foot easement to serve two lots (Leroy Woodyard for Brian David Rickman, BOC Dist. 2)
• Approval of the November 11, 2025, Zoning Board of Appeals minutes

Board of Elections and Registration Special Called Meeting

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to certify results for several elections held on November 4, 2025. This includes county-wide special elections and general elections for three cities.

• Certification of Cherokee County Special PSC, TSPLOST, and Homestead Exemption for Surviving Spouses
• Certification of City of Ball Ground General Election
• Certification of City of Canton General Election
• Certification of City of Woodstock General Election

Board of Elections and Registration Special Called Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration will convene to review official returns from the November 7, 2025 general election, including races for the Cherokee County Special PSC, TSPLOST, and Homestead Exemption, as well as municipal elections in Ball Ground, Canton, and Woodstock.

• Review returns for Cherokee County Special PSC, TSPLOST, Homestead Exemption
• Review returns for City of Ball Ground General Election
• Review returns for City of Canton General Election
• Review returns for City of Woodstock General Election

The board approved its meeting agenda unanimously. It then approved findings that the number of ballots cast in the Cherokee County Special PSC, TSPLOST, Homestead Exemption, and the cities of Ball Ground, Canton, and Woodstock did not exceed the number of active registered voters, each by a 5‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous motion.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved finding that ballots for Cherokee County Special PSC, TSPLOST, Homestead Exemption did not exceed active voters (5-0)
• Approved finding that ballots for City of Ball Ground did not exceed active voters (5-0)
• Approved finding that ballots for City of Canton did not exceed active voters (5-0)
• Approved finding that ballots for City of Woodstock did not exceed active voters (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission Public Hearing

The Cherokee County Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes from recent sessions and consider three zoning cases, including requests to rezone residential land for commercial and residential subdivision use.

• Approve October 20, 2025, Planning Commission Worksession Minutes
• Approve November 4, 2025, Planning Commission Public Hearing Minutes
• Approve November 17, 2025, Planning Commission Worksession Minutes
• Case #25-12-030S: Request to rezone 4.2+/- acres from R-40 to GC
• Case #25-12-031: Request to rezone 0.54+/- acres from R-40 to NC

The commission voted 7‑0 to recommend approval of the City of Ball Ground TND zoning for an 11.45‑acre residential subdivision, with conditions from the referenced document. It also voted 8‑0 to recommend denial of the requested General Commercial zoning and Special Use Permit for Merodynamic Pools. Additionally, the commission voted 8‑0 to recommend approval of Neighborhood Commercial zoning and a limited variance for a 0.54‑acre site.

• Denied GC zoning for Merodynamic Pools (8-0)
• Denied Special Use Permit for Merodynamic Pools (8-0)
• Approved City of Ball Ground TND zoning for Gilmer Land Investments with conditions (7-0)
• Approved NC zoning and limited variance for Jeremy Gronau site (8-0)

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss workforce housing with Planning and Zoning. The meeting also includes a presentation of Cherokee Recreation & Parks awards.

• Discussion of workforce housing with Planning and Zoning
• Cherokee Recreation & Parks Awards presented by Bryan Reynolds

At the December 2, 2025 work session, the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn to Executive Session at 4:41 p.m. No other items were recorded as approved, denied, or tabled during this meeting.

• Adjourned to Executive Session (5-0)

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

This meeting includes decisions on a TSPLOST Citizens Review Committee, a public hearing call for Pearidge Land Investments rezoning, and multiple consent agenda and county manager items. The Board will consider a $317,500/year Flock camera agreement for the Sheriff's Office, an $875,000 sheriff's range project, and a $30,210.87 EMS trauma grant, among other purchases and agreements.

• Flock Safety camera agreement for Sheriff's Office: $317,500/year, 3-year term
• Construction agreement with InVeris for sheriff's range ballistic traps and target system: $875,000
• EMS trauma grant from Fire & Emergency Services: $30,210.87
• Dugout purchase for Sequoyah Park: $99,998.05
• Digital case evidence management system with AXON: $98,440 initial, $1.6M over 10 years

Board of Elections and Registration Regular Meeting

This is a routine regular meeting of the Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration. The board will vote to approve the agenda and minutes from three November meetings (regular, pre-certification, and certification). The director will give a report, and public comments will be heard. No new or unfinished business is listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 3 Regular Board Meeting
• Approval of minutes from November 7 Pre-Certification Board Meeting (3 p.m.)
• Approval of minutes from November 7 Certification Meeting (5 p.m.)

The board voted to approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from three previous meetings. All motions passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved November 3, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved November 7, 2025 returns review minutes (4-0)
• Approved November 7, 2025 certification minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Board of Commissioners will review third quarter financial results and receive a presentation on impact fee updates. The session includes discussions on a workforce housing overlay and the TSPLOST Citizens Review Committee.

• Impact Fee Update presentation by Ben Griffin of Tischler Bise
• Third Quarter Financial Results presentation by CFO Jimmy Marquis
• Workforce Housing Overlay discussion
• TSPLOST Citizens Review Committee discussion
• Love Where You Live Community Giveback presentation

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners work session featured presentations on the Love Where You Live community giveback, impact fee updates, third‑quarter financial results, and a workforce housing overlay. Discussions covered the proposed TSPLOST Citizens Review Committee and a series of public hearings on zoning variances, sign ordinance amendments, road‑truck restrictions, animal‑control sales, alcohol offenses involving minors, and tobacco retailer penalties. No motions were voted on or formally approved during this meeting.

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on several ordinance amendments, including sign requirements, no‑thru‑truck road listings, animal‑sale regulations, minor‑related alcohol offenses, and tobacco retailer licensing. The board will consider budget amendments such as a $75,000 transfer for the Sheriff’s Office Intel‑Technical account and a $12,133.76 transfer for the Clerk of Courts. It will also review a $186,826.14 equipment purchase for a new vehicle lift and alignment rack for the county fleet, a $35,811.20 cyber‑security solution renewal, and a $7,000 donation to the Fire Explorer program. Additional items include final acceptance of the Liberty Springs subdivision and various service contract renewals.

• Public hearing to amend Article 11 of the Sign Ordinance (monument sign requirements)
• Public hearing to update the list of roads for the No‑Thru‑Truck ordinance
• Budget amendment: $75,000 transfer to the Sheriff’s Office Intel‑Technical account
• Equipment purchase: vehicle lift and alignment rack up to $186,826.14 for the fleet
• Donation: $7,000 from Amicalola Electric Membership Corp. to Fire Explorer program

Planning Commission Work Session

The Planning Commission is holding a work session to discuss three zoning cases. These include requests to change land use for commercial and residential development purposes.

• Case #25-12-030S: Request to rezone 4.2+/- acres from R-40 to GC and a Special Use Permit for pool installation
• Case #2025-R-04: Request to rezone 11.45 +/- acres from R-40 to City of Ball Ground TND for a residential subdivision
• Case #25-12-031: Request to rezone 0.54 +/- acres from R-40 to NC and a variance to reduce the zoning buffer from 30-feet to 15-feet

The commission reviewed four zoning cases: a commercial rezoning for Merodynamic Pools, a residential subdivision rezoning for Gilmer Land Investments, a neighborhood commercial rezoning with a buffer variance for H. Michael Bray, and other business. No motions were adopted, denied, or tabled, and no votes were recorded. The meeting concluded with a retirement ceremony for Tom Ware.

Planning Commission Work Session

The Cherokee County Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss three zoning cases. The most significant is a request to rezone 14.52 acres from AG to RZL for 54 units, with multiple variances including reduced setbacks and buffer disturbance. Other cases involve a rezoning to Light Industrial and to General Commercial.

• Case #25-08-022: Rezone 14.52 acres at AG to RZL for 54 units, with variances for setbacks, side windows, buffer disturbance, and hammerhead streets
• Case #25-10-027: Rezone 9.96 acres from AG to LI, with a variance to allow a 50-foot access easement within the zoning buffer
• Case #25-10-028: Rezone 5.4793 acres from R-40 to GC for a tree service office and parking

The Cherokee County Planning Commission met on September 22, 2025 to discuss four pending zoning cases. Staff presented background and answered questions, but the commission did not vote on any rezoning, variance, or other actions. The meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider several variance requests regarding signage, building setbacks, and lot coverage. The board will also vote on the 2026 public hearing calendar.

• Case #25-09-055V: Chick-Fil-A request for six signs, including a cabinet style sign
• Case #25-11-061V: Calvary Baptist Church request for an electronic message board exceeding 32 sq. ft. and 8 feet in height
• Case #25-11-062V: Request to reduce barn building setbacks from 75 ft. to 5 ft. and 18 ft.
• Case #25-11-063V: Request to reduce front building setback from 35-feet to 25-feet and increase lot coverage to 38%
• Case #25-11-066V: Request for 9 lots to be served by a shared easement less than 60-feet wide

The Cherokee County Zoning Board of Appeals approved the October 9, 2025 minutes and a request to withdraw a variance application. The board then approved several variance requests covering signage, setbacks, lot coverage, and easements, each passing unanimously or with all members present. The 2026 meeting calendar was also approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved October 9, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved Chick‑Fil‑A signage variance (5-0)
• Approved Calvary Baptist Church sign and electronic board variance (5-0)
• Approved Underwood barn setback variance with livestock‑use condition (4-0)
• Approved Broadwell front‑setback and lot‑coverage variance (5-0)
• Approved Cagle barn variance with livestock‑use condition (5-0)
• Approved Armstrong wall‑sign variance (5-0)
• Approved Hubbard shared‑easement variance (5-0)

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss a Workforce Housing Overlay and amendments regarding Large Lot Rural Subdivisions. The session also includes a review of regular agenda items.

• Workforce Housing Overlay discussion
• Large Lot Rural Subdivisions amendment discussion

The commissioners voted 5‑0 to add a discussion of large‑lot rural subdivisions to the work session agenda. No other items were approved, denied, or tabled during this meeting. Remaining topics, including the workforce housing overlay and several zoning cases, were discussed but no votes were recorded.

• Amend agenda to include large‑lot rural subdivisions discussion – approved 5‑0

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will consider three rezoning requests, appointments to the Land Bank and Development Authority, and numerous contracts including equipment for the Sheriff's Office and fire services. A consent agenda item calls for a public hearing in December on a Workforce Housing Overlay District. The board will also vote on renewal agreements for public safety network and IT maintenance.

• Rezone 14.52 acres (AG to RZL) for 43 zero-lot-line homes with four variances (Case 25-08-022)
• Rezone 9.96 acres (AG to Light Industrial) with buffer variance (Case 25-10-027)
• Rezone 5.48 acres (R-40 to General Commercial) for tree service office (Case 25-10-028)
• Purchase 97 Dead Air Sierra 5 XM suppressors for Sheriff's Office ($55,587.79)
• Approve five-year uniform agreement for Fire & Emergency Services ($325,000 annually)

Board of Elections and Registration Regular Meeting

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to conduct regular business. The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate items.

• Approval of October 6, 2025 meeting minutes

The Board of Elections and Voter Registration approved the meeting agenda with a 5-0 vote. It also approved the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting by a 5-0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved October 6, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission Work Session

The Cherokee County Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss one zoning case: a request to rezone 1.38 acres from Estate Residential (R-80) to Single-Family Residential (R-60) to allow a lot split. The meeting also includes call to order, approval of minutes, other business, and adjournment.

• Case #25-11-029: Seth Stroud for Samba Creative Ventures, LLC seeks rezoning of 1.38± acres from R-80 to R-60 for a lot split on a 3.23± acre property (BOC Dist. 2)

The commission voted 7‑0 to recommend denial of the request to rezone 9.96 acres from General Agriculture to Light Industrial. It also approved the 2026 meeting calendar and several prior meeting minutes. The commission approved the Residential Zero Lot Line rezoning with four conditions and four related variances. No decision was recorded for the General Commercial rezoning request.

• Approved 2026 meeting calendar (7‑0)
• Approved September 2, 2025 public hearing minutes (7‑0)
• Approved September 22, 2025 worksession minutes (6‑0, 1 abstention)
• Recommended approval of RZL zoning with four conditions (5‑2)
• Approved variance to Article 7, Table 7.1A (6‑1)
• Approved variance to Article 7, Section 7.4‑2, C (6‑1)
• Approved variance to Article 10, Section 10.6‑2 (6‑1)
• Recommended denial of LI rezoning (7‑0)

Planning Commission Work Session

The Planning Commission will consider several zoning applications, including a request by Robert and Mary Stone to change their property from single‑family (R‑40) to Light Industrial (LI) and to obtain a special use permit for a self‑storage facility along with multiple variances. Other items include rezoning of agricultural land for residential development and a special use permit for a package store. The commission will discuss each case and any related variances.

• Case 25-08-021: Rezone R‑40 to LI, special use permit for self‑storage, and eight variances (buffer, density, driveway, setbacks, fence, etc.)
• Case 25-08-022: Rezone 14.52 acres AG to RZL for 54 units, with setbacks, window, screening, and street design variances
• Case 25-09-024: Rezone 110.75 acres AG to R‑15 single‑family residential
• Case 25-09-025S: Special use permit and exceptional variance for a package store in Bells Ferry Overlay
• Case 25-09-026: Rezone 1.874 acres R‑80 to R‑40 and 5.106 acres R‑80 to LI, plus variance to remove deceleration lane on Chattin Drive

The work session reviewed seven zoning and special‑use cases, with staff reports and public‑hearing summaries presented. Commissioners requested additional input from neighboring cities and the applicants for some cases, and noted recusal or pending comments. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded.

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss a workforce housing overlay and changes to monument sign requirements. The body will also review items for the regular agenda.

• Workforce Housing Overlay discussion
• Article 11 monument sign requirement changes

The Commissioners decided to postpone any action on the Workforce Housing Overlay for two weeks until the next meeting. They scheduled a public hearing on the Adam Westerby zoning variance appeal to be held at the regular meeting that evening. They also agreed to develop and present recommendations on the City of Canton annexation applications at the regular meeting.

• Deferred Workforce Housing Overlay decision (no vote recorded)
• Scheduled public hearing on Adam Westerby variance appeal at regular meeting
• Will provide recommendations on City of Canton annexation projects at regular meeting

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several zoning requests, including two annexations by the City of Canton. The body is also considering multiple budget amendments for infrastructure and public safety equipment, as well as several calls for public hearings on county ordinances.

• Design-build agreement with Spratlin Construction for Fire Stations 5 and 29 and a Fire Education center not to exceed $20,000,000.00
• Budget amendment of $2,000,000.00 for the Technology Ridge Parkway and Airport Road Spur Project GTIB loan
• Purchase of an armored BearCat for SWAT in the amount of $399,839.00 using school zone speed camera fines
• Annexation applications from the City of Canton for 2829 Ball Ground Highway (48.24 acres) and 3632 Fate Conn Road (4.85 acres)
• Purchase of 15 2025 Ford Police Interceptor vehicles for $875,936.85

Board of Elections and Registration Special Called Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration will hold a special called meeting on September 26, 2025 at 3:00 PM at the Elections Office, 193 Lamar Haley Parkway, Canton, GA. The agenda includes a moment of silence, a call to order, a review of election returns, and adjournment. No specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Moment of Silence, Meditation or Prayer
• Call to Order
• Review of Returns
• Adjournment

The Board of Elections and Voter Registration held a precertification meeting. After reviewing documentation, members found that ballots cast as of 3 p.m. were not more than the number of active registered voters. They noted that four provisional ballots have been cured as allowed by law. No other ballots remain to be counted.

Board of Elections and Registration Special Called Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration will hold a special called meeting to certify the results of the September 23, 2025 special election runoff for Board of Commissioners District 1 and State House District 21. The meeting also includes a moment of silence and adjournment.

• Certification of September 23, 2025 special election runoff for BOC 1 and SD 21

The Board of Elections and Voter Registration certified the September 23, 2025 runoff elections for Senate District 21 and Board of Commissioners District 1. The certification motion passed unanimously, 4‑0. The meeting was then adjourned by a 4‑0 vote.

• Certified Sep 23, 2025 Senate District 21 runoff election (4‑0)
• Certified Sep 23, 2025 Board of Commissioners District 1 runoff election (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Board will discuss the impact of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds on the Goshen Valley Foundation's Boys Ranch, presented by Zach Blend. They will also recognize third quarter 2025 employee anniversaries and discuss items from the regular agenda. The meeting concludes with a closed executive session.

• Discussion of CDBG funds impact on Goshen Valley Foundation's Boys Ranch
• Recognition of third quarter 2025 anniversaries by Human Resources Director
• Discussion of regular agenda items
• Executive session to follow adjournment

The commissioners reviewed several agenda items, including proclamations for Hispanic Heritage Month, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Community Planning Month, and discussed future meeting dates and an appointment to the Animal Control Advisory Board. All items were noted for presentation or decision at the regular meeting. No votes or approvals were recorded during this work session.

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will consider adopting the FY2026 budget totaling $438,576,565. They will also review several grant awards, including VOCA grants of $64,456 for the Solicitor General and $127,373 for the District Attorney, and an EPD Tire Grant of $187,001 for Veteran’s Park. Additional items include a consent agreement for financing Fire Station 16 and a contract to resurface Hobgood Park tennis courts for $37,700.

• Adoption of FY2026 budget – $438,576,565
• VOCA grant for Solicitor General – $64,456
• VOCA grant for District Attorney – $127,373
• EPD Tire Grant for Veteran’s Park – $187,001
• Consent to Assignment and Assumption Agreement for Fire Station 16 financing

Board of Elections and Registration Regular Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration will meet on October 6, 2025 at 9:30 AM at the admin complex. The board will approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the September 8, 2025 regular meeting and related special‑election meetings. A director's report, old business, new business, and public comments will also be considered.

• Approval of Monthly Board Meeting Agenda
• Approval of Board Meeting Minutes (Sept 8, 2025 and related special‑election meetings)
• Director's Report
• Old Business
• New Business

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from three previous meetings. It also approved a statement reviewing the September 23 special election returns. All motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote, and the board then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved September 8, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved September 26, 2025 statement review (5-0)
• Approved September 29, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to receive a presentation on growth management and discuss items on the regular agenda. An executive session will follow the meeting.

• Presentation on Growth Management
• Discussion of Regular Agenda Items
• Executive Session to Follow

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners moved to adjourn the September 16 work session to an executive session. The motion was made by Commissioner Corey Ragsdale, seconded by Commissioner Benny Carter, and passed with a 4-0 vote. No other items were formally approved, denied, or tabled during this work session.

• Adjourn work session to executive session – passed 4-0

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings on the FY2026 budget, two rezoning requests (including 69 acres to Light Industrial), and a zoning text amendment. They will also consider resolutions on a city annexation and seek legislative help on undesirable annexations, plus vote on multiple contracts and purchases totaling millions of dollars.

• Public hearing for FY2026 Budget adoption (Oct. 7 meeting)
• Rezone 69+ acres from OI/R80 to LI (Case #25-02-003, Parks Huff for Ball Ground Business Park)
• City of Nelson annexation of Martin-Marietta Quarry (654.8 acres) and City of Ball Ground annexation (11.45 acres on Ball Ground Road)
• Award $6,582,064.94 construction contract for Yellow Creek Conservation Area & Trails and Woodworth Park to Vertical Earth, LLC
• Resolution seeking assistance from Cherokee Legislative Delegation on Undesirable Annexation

Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing

The Cherokee County Zoning Board of Appeals will review several variance applications at its September 11, 2025 public hearing. Items include requests for shared easements, monument and wall signs, animal‑quarters setbacks, and accessory‑structure placements. The board will decide whether to grant each variance according to the county development ordinance provisions.

• Case #25-09-055V – Chick‑Fil‑A requests a variance for a 37.71 sq ft wall sign, two signs on one wall face, and a total of six signs, plus a cabinet‑style sign.
• Case #25-09-053V – Walt Linscott seeks a variance for a shared easement less than 60 feet wide to serve five lots.
• Case #25-09-054V – Matthew Braden requests a variance to allow a second monument sign.
• Case #25-09-056V – Matthew Washabaugh seeks a variance to reduce an animal‑quarters setback from 75 ft to 38 ft.
• Case #25-09-058V – Kody Smith requests a variance to add an additional lot to an existing 30‑foot easement.

The board approved the August 14, 2025 minutes (4‑0). It denied Walt Linscott’s request for a shared‑easement rural subdivision (4‑0) and approved variances for Matthew Braden’s sign (4‑0) and Matthew Washabaugh’s animal‑quarters (4‑0). The board postponed the Chick‑Fil‑A sign hearing to Nov. 13 (4‑0) and postponed the Parks Huff development request (3‑1). It also approved Kody Smith’s easement extension for an additional lot (4‑0).

• Approved August 14, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Denied Walt Linscott variance for shared easement (4-0)
• Approved Matthew Braden sign variance (4-0)
• Postponed Chick‑Fil‑A sign hearing to Nov. 13 (4-0)
• Approved Matthew Washabaugh animal‑quarters variance (existing structure only) (4-0)
• Postponed Parks Huff development variance (3-1)
• Approved Kody Smith easement extension for one additional lot (4-0)

Board of Elections and Registration Regular Meeting

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to review the Director's report and conduct other regular business. The meeting includes a discussion on a pre-certification hand count audit presented by John Wallace.

• Pre-Certification Hand Count Audit - John Wallace
• Approval of August 4, August 29 (Review of Returns), and August 29 (Certification Meeting) minutes

The board approved the meeting agenda and all prior meeting minutes unanimously. A motion to conduct a pre‑certification hand count of the special election runoff returns was defeated, voting 1‑4. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approve agenda (5‑0)
• Approve August 4, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Approve August 29, 2025 3:00 PM minutes (5‑0)
• Approve August 29, 2025 5:00 PM minutes (5‑0)
• Reject pre‑certification hand count of special election runoff (1‑4)
• Adjourn meeting (5‑0)

Board of Elections and Registration Special Called Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration is holding a special called meeting to review precinct returns, as required by SEB Rule 183-1-12-.12(f)(1). No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Review of Precinct Returns – SEB Rule 183-1-12-.12(f)(1)

The Board approved the meeting agenda with a 5-0 vote. It also approved the precertification findings that the ballots counted as of 3 PM do not exceed the number of active registered voters, also by a 5-0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned with a 5-0 vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved precertification findings that ballots counted do not exceed registered voters (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Elections and Registration Special Called Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Elections and Registration is meeting to certify the results of the August 26 special election for Senate District 21 and Board of Commissioner District 1. This is a procedural certification step to finalize the election outcomes.

• Certify results of Special Election held August 26, 2025, for Senate District 21 and Board of Commissioner District 1

The board approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It then certified the August 26, 2025 Senate District 21 and Board of Commissioner District 1 special elections by a 5‑0 vote. Finally, the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Certified Senate District 21 & Board of Commissioner District 1 elections (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission Public Hearing

The Cherokee County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on September 2, 2025 to decide six zoning cases. These include rezonings for residential and industrial uses, special use permits for a self-storage facility and a package store, and several variance requests. The largest case seeks to rezone 110.75 acres from General Agriculture to Single-Family Residential.

• Case 25-08-021: Robert and Mary Stone request rezoning from R-40 to Light Industrial, plus a special use permit for a self-storage facility, and multiple variances including a reduced tree buffer from 75 ft to 25 ft.
• Case 25-08-022: Parks Huff for Traton Homes seeks rezoning of 14.52 acres from AG to Residential Zero Lot Line for 54 units, plus variances for setbacks, windows, buffer disturbance, and hammerhead streets.
• Case 25-09-024: Parks Huff for Ashton Atlanta Residential seeks rezoning of 110.75 acres from AG to R-15 (Single-Family Residential).
• Case 25-09-025S: Parks Huff for Rajeshkumar Patel seeks a special use permit for a package store in the Bells Ferry Overlay, plus an exceptional variance.
• Case 2025-R-04: BG Partners LLC for Bertamini Development seeks rezoning of 4.58 acres from County AG to City of Ball Ground GC.

The commission voted 7‑1 to deny the request to rezone a 110.75‑acre agricultural parcel to R‑15 single‑family residential. The motion was made by Mr. Van Zant and seconded by Mr. Ware; Mr. Whitaker voted against and Dr. Whiteside abstained. Earlier, the commission also denied a smaller rezoning request (R‑40 to LI) 8‑1 and tabled another rezoning case 9‑0. The meeting also approved two prior minutes unanimously.

• Approved July 1, 2025 Public Hearing Minutes (9‑0)
• Approved July 28, 2025 Worksession Minutes (9‑0)
• Denied rezoning R‑40 to LI for Stone property, with six variances (8‑1, Mr. Ware opposed)
• Tabled decision on Parks Huff Traton Homes rezoning to RZL (9‑0)
• Denied rezoning of 110.75‑acre farm to R‑15 (7‑1, Mr. Whitaker opposed, Dr. Whiteside abstained)

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will hear the Community Development Agency annual report presented by Director Brantley Day, a FY2026 budget presentation by CFO Jimmy Marquis, and discuss regular agenda items. No specific decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Community Development Agency Annual Report presented by Brantley Day, Director
• FY2026 Budget Presentation by Jimmy Marquis, CFO
• Discussion of Regular Agenda Items

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to adjourn the September 2, 2025 work session to an executive session. The executive session will address property acquisition, personnel matters, and pending or threatened litigation. No other agenda items were voted on or approved during the public portion of the meeting.

• Adjourned to Executive Session (vote 4-0)

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners will discuss a report from State Representative Brad Thomas, approve minutes from the August 19 meeting, and hold a public hearing. They will consider several financial agreements, including a major amendment to the Adult Detention Center food services contract, a cell tower lease at Cline Park, and a grant for hazard mitigation. Additional items include a firearms training range improvement contract and a resolution to call a TSPLOST referendum. The meeting also includes routine announcements and surplus equipment disposals.

• Amendment to Adult Detention Center Food Services Agreement – $796,167.03
• Cell Tower Lease Agreement at Cline Park in Waleska – 5‑year term
• Firearms Training Range Improvements contract with LDD‑Blueline, Inc. – $93,400.00
• Five‑Year Hazard Mitigation Plan Grant from GEMA/HS – $51,755.00
• Purchase of 200 banquet chairs for the Conference Center – $40,830.51

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Board of Commissioners will receive a presentation from District Attorney Susan Treadaway and a report on healthcare costs from CFO Jimmy Marquis. The body will also discuss items appearing on the regular agenda.

• Presentation by District Attorney Susan Treadaway
• Healthcare costs presentation by CFO Jimmy Marquis
• Discussion of regular agenda items

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners moved to adjourn the work session to an Executive Session to discuss property acquisition, personnel matters, and pending or threatened litigation. The motion was passed unanimously with a 3-0 vote. No other formal votes or approvals were recorded in the minutes.

• Adjourned work session to Executive Session (vote 3-0)

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss potential growth control actions and a lawsuit regarding property annexation in the Hickory Flat community. The meeting includes public hearings on tree preservation, sidewalks, and residential rezoning. The Board will also consider several contracts and grant acceptances.

• Lawsuit consideration regarding City of Holly Springs annexation at East Cherokee Drive and Lower Union Hill Road
• Rezoning request for 62.16 total acres for a residential subdivision (Case #25-06-017)
• Purchase of networking equipment for 94 North Street project for $40,678.14
• GDOT funding application for CATS Rural Transportation Program totaling $526,000.00
• CityView software maintenance renewal for $92,153.91

Zoning Board of Appeals Public Hearing

The Cherokee County Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on nine variance requests. Cases include requests to reduce stream buffers, allow non-compatible metal accessory structures, subdivide a lot, and modify setbacks and parking for a commercial property near Cabela's Way and Northpoint Parkway. The board will also consider a variance to floodplain access requirements.

• Case 25-08-044V: variance to remove 25 ft of the 50 ft county stream buffer on an unknown property (BOC Dist. 1).
• Case 25-08-047V: multiple variances for WDGREP Acquisitions LLC, including reducing setbacks on Cabela's Way and Northpoint Parkway, increasing parking to 51 spaces, and eliminating a deceleration lane.
• Case 25-08-049V: variance to allow an accessory structure over 50% of principal structure size and not wholly enclosed (BOC Dist. 1).
• Case 25-08-050V: variance to subdivide a 5.00-acre tract into two lots (BOC Dist. 1).
• Case 25-08-052V: variance to allow a house access below the required 3 ft above base flood elevation (BOC Dist. 2).

The board approved a series of variances for John Wise’s development on Cabela’s Way and Northpoint Parkway, including reduced setbacks, increased parking, removal of streetscape, reduced intersection spacing, and elimination of a deceleration lane, with votes ranging from 3‑1 to 4‑0. The board also approved a variance for John Satterfield’s metal accessory structure (4‑0) and for Rob Logan’s wall sign (4‑0). Motions on other cases (Hanna’s stream buffer variance and Westerby’s accessory structure) failed to pass due to tie votes.

• Hanna stream buffer encroachment variance denied (motion failed 2‑2)
• Satterfield metal accessory structure variance approved (4‑0)
• Westerby accessory structure variance denied (motion failed 2‑2)
• Wise setback reduction variance approved (3‑1)
• Wise parking increase variance approved (4‑0)
• Wise streetscape removal variance approved (4‑0)
• Wise intersection spacing reduction variance approved (3‑1)
• Logan wall sign variance approved (4‑0)

Planning Commission Public Hearing

The Cherokee County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on three zoning cases and vote on minutes from prior meetings. The cases include a request to rezone residential land to light industrial for RV parking and self-storage with multiple variances, a 54-unit zero-lot-line subdivision from agricultural zoning, and a commercial-to-light-industrial rezoning. All cases also include requests for variances to development standards.

• Case 25-08-021: Rezone 2.909 acres from R-40 to LI for RV/commercial parking and self-storage, with variances to buffer, setback, driveway, and fence requirements.
• Case 25-08-022: Rezone 14.52 acres from AG to RZL for 54 units, with variances for side setbacks, building separation, buffer disturbance, and hammerhead streets.
• Case 25-08-023: Rezone 1.84 acres from GC to LI, with variances to reduce side setback, eliminate adjacent buffer, and remove privacy fence requirement.
• Approval of July 1, 2025 Public Hearing Minutes and July 28, 2025 Worksession Minutes

The commission approved the July 1 and July 28 public hearing minutes. It postponed decisions on the Stone and Parks Huff applications to allow further municipal input. It voted to recommend denial of the rezoning and variances for the Fletcher Law case.

• Approved July 1, 2025 public hearing minutes (8-0)
• Approved July 28, 2025 worksession minutes (8-0)
• Postponed decision on Stone rezoning request (9-0)
• Postponed decision on Parks Huff rezoning request (9-0)
• Recommended denial of rezoning for Fletcher Law property (5-4)
• Adjourned meeting (9-0)

Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Board will hear presentations on the 2025 update of investor-owned single-family rental housing stock and 2050 growth projections, discuss the possibility of a TSPLOST transportation tax, and receive the Public Services Agency annual report. No formal votes are expected at this work session.

• Recognition of Chief Eddie Robinson as 2024 Georgia Fire Chief of the Year by State Representative Charlice Byrd
• Public Services Agency Annual Report presented by Chief Marshal Dana Martin
• 2025 update on institutional investor-owned single-family residential housing stock by Alison Eltz
• 2050 growth projections presentation by Daniela Rangel
• Discussion of a possible TSPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax)

During the work session, the Board approved the appointment of Dr. Amy Crowder to fill the vacant seat on the Animal Control Advisory Board. The appointment is effective immediately and will run until December 31, 2026. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded in this meeting.

• Appointed Dr. Amy Crowder to Animal Control Advisory Board (effective immediately, term ends Dec 31 2026)

Board of Commissioners Special Called Meeting

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special called meeting solely for a public hearing on the proposed 2025 millage rate (property tax rate). No other items are on the agenda.

• Public hearing on 2025 millage rate

At the special called meeting, Commissioners voted unanimously to open the public hearing on the 2025 millage rate. They later voted unanimously to close that hearing. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Opened public hearing on 2025 Millage Rate (4-0)
• Closed public hearing on 2025 Millage Rate (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will conduct public hearings to adopt 2025 millage rates for the county and school district. The meeting also includes several rezoning requests and the awarding of multiple road construction contracts.

• Public hearing to adopt 2025 Millage Rates for the County and School District
• Construction agreement for SR 92 at Trickum Road Intersection Improvements for $4,676,664.00
• Construction agreement for South Jett Road Improvement Project for $1,555,391.00
• Rezoning request for 69 +/- acres from OI and R80 to LI for Ball Ground Business Park, LLC
• Purchase of two 2026 Ford E350 Phoenix buses for $219,974.52