Commerce public meetings in 2025

City Council

The Council will hold a work session to discuss a proposed annexation and rezoning of approximately 39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane for the Commerce City School District, along with several contracts and policy updates. Other items include a $399,707 contract for water tank maintenance, a grant for street resurfacing and sidewalk repair, renewal of alcohol licenses, and appointment to the Housing Authority Board.

• Annexation and rezoning request for 39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane from Jackson County E1 to City C-1 (PAX25-0003 & PR25-0013)
• Award of contract with USG for $399,707 to inspect, maintain, and paint three water tanks (Clayton, Roper, Water Plant)
• 2026 Local Maintenance & Improvement Grant for resurfacing 6 streets (+/-1.66 miles), stormwater improvements on 4 streets, and repair/replace ~1,470 feet of sidewalk
• Amendment to Purchasing Policy authorizing City Manager to approve contracts up to $100,000
• Appointment of Alicia Vargas to the Commerce Housing Authority Board for a 60-month term (Jan 2026 - Dec 2030)

The City Council held a work session to discuss several items including water tank maintenance and property changes. No formal votes or final decisions were recorded in these minutes as the meeting was a work session.

• Swore in Pastor Jeff Cain and Pastor Rochard White as Police Chaplains
• Discussed $399,707 contract for water tank maintenance with USG
• Discussed renewal of CSRA Probation Services agreement through 2030
• Discussed amendment to purchasing policy regarding $100,000 contract limits
• Discussed appointment of Alicia Vargas to the Commerce Housing Authority Board
• Discussed annexation and rezoning of 39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane

City Council

The Commerce City Council will consider several action items including annexation and rezoning of 39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane for the Commerce City School District, award of a $399,707 contract for water tank inspections and painting, and approval of a 2026 LMIG grant for street resurfacing and sidewalk repairs. The meeting also includes a presentation of the FY2025 audit and annual employee awards.

• Annexation and rezoning of 39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane from Jackson County E1 to City C-1 for Commerce City School District
• Contract award of $399,707 to USG for inspection, maintenance, and painting of three water tanks (Clayton, Roper, Water Plant)
• 2026 LMIG grant request for resurfacing ~1.66 miles of 6 streets, stormwater improvements on 4 streets, and repair/replace ~1,470 feet of sidewalk
• Amendment to purchasing policy authorizing City Manager to approve contracts up to $100,000
• Appointment of Alicia Vargas to Commerce Housing Authority Board for 60-month term (Jan 2026 - Dec 2030)

City Council approved contracts for water tank maintenance, waste pollution plant construction, and street resurfacing. The council also annexed 39.84 acres for the Commerce City School District and rescinded the appointment of the Municipal Court Judge.

• Approved Grove Creek WPCP Construction GMP (6-0)
• Approved 2026 LMIG for 6 streets resurfacing, stormwater improvements, and sidewalk repair (6-0)
• Approved $399,707 contract with USG for water tank inspection and painting (6-0)
• Approved Professional Services Agreement renewal with CSRA Probation Services (6-0)
• Approved purchasing policy amendment raising City Manager contract limit to $100,000 (6-0)
• Appointed Alicia Vargas to Commerce Housing Authority Board for 60 months (6-0)
• Approved annexation and rezoning to C-1 for 39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane (6-0)
• Rescinded appointment of Thassanee Gutter-Parker as Municipal Court Judge (6-0)

City Council

The Commerce City Council will consider amendments to city codes restricting alcohol and tobacco sales to minors, as well as location restrictions for alcohol sales. The council will also vote on a conditional use permit for commercial indoor recreation at 1416 South Broad Street, and make appointments to the municipal court, city attorney, public defender, and planning commission. An executive session on personnel is scheduled.

• Amendment to Section 6-35: sale of alcohol to minors
• Amendment to Article 1, Chapter 6: location restrictions for alcohol sales
• Amendment to Article 1, Chapter 46: sale of tobacco products to minors
• Conditional use permit for commercial indoor recreation at 1416 South Broad Street (PC25-0002)
• Appointments to municipal court, city attorney, public defender, and planning commission

The City Council approved amendments to alcohol and tobacco sales ordinances, updated board and commission bylaws, and appointed municipal court staff and planning commission members. A conditional use permit for a golf simulator was discussed but not decided.

• Approved alcohol sales ordinance amendments (unanimous)
• Approved tobacco sales ordinance amendments (unanimous)
• Approved Boards and Commissions ordinance amendments (unanimous)
• Appointed Judge Billy Chandler as Judge Emeritus (unanimous)
• Reappointed Kevin Christopher as Associate Judge (unanimous)
• Reappointed Susan Rigdon as Public Defender (unanimous)
• Reappointed John Stell as City Attorney (unanimous)
• Deferred Planning Commission appointments to Nov 17 meeting

City Council

The Commerce City Council will certify the 2025 general election results and approve FY25 budget amendments. The council will consider amendments to city codes governing alcohol sales to minors, location restrictions for alcohol sales, and tobacco sales to minors. Appointments include a Municipal Court Chief Judge, Solicitor, Judge Emeritus, Associate Judge, Public Defender, City Attorney, and two Planning Commission seats. A conditional use permit for commercial indoor recreation at 1416 South Broad Street is also on the agenda.

• Certification of 2025 General Election results
• FY25 Budget Amendments
• Appointments: Municipal Court Chief Judge, Solicitor, Judge Emeritus, Associate Judge, Public Defender, City Attorney, and two Planning Commission seats
• Amendments to City Code Sections 6-35 (alcohol to minors), Article 1 Ch.6 (alcohol location restrictions), Article 1 Ch.46 (tobacco to minors), and Article IV Ch.2 (Boards, Commissions, Authorities)
• Conditional Use Permit PC25-0002: commercial indoor recreation at 1416 South Broad Street

The City Council certified the 2025 General Election results and approved several amendments to the City Code of Ordinances regarding alcohol and tobacco sales to minors. The council also filled multiple municipal court and city attorney positions and approved a conditional use permit for indoor recreation.

• Certified 2025 General Election results (Unanimous)
• Approved FY25 Budget Amendments (Unanimous)
• Appointed Thassanee Gutter Parker as Municipal Court Chief Judge (Unanimous)
• Appointed Candice Oliver as Municipal Court Solicitor (Unanimous)
• Approved city code amendments for alcohol sales to minors (Unanimous)
• Approved city code amendments for tobacco sales to minors (Unanimous)
• Appointed Joe Leffew and Rob Brown to Planning Commission (6-1)
• Approved conditional use permit for indoor recreation at 1416 South Broad Street (Unanimous)

Commerce Downtown Development Authority & Civic Center Tourism Authority

This meeting covers approval of minutes and financials, a staff report on recent events and property status, new business including the 2026 Work Plan, and discussion on the Pine Street building. Notable items include leasing opportunities at 41 State St, 29 State St, and 1730 N Broad St, as well as updates on board terms and DDA applications.

• Ribbon Cutting at Harmony Grove Park
• Market on Broad expansion
• Renovations at 1736 N Broad St
• Properties available to lease: 41 State St, 29 State St, 1730 N Broad St
• Discussion of 2026 Work Plan and Pine Street building

The Commerce Downtown Development Authority & Civic Center Tourism Authority meeting was canceled because a quorum was not present. The agenda included approving minutes, financials, and a 2026 work plan, but these items were not addressed.

• Meeting canceled due to lack of quorum
• Roll call recorded for Vice Chair Dylan Wilbanks and Chair Wesley Wilbanks

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider an annexation and rezoning request from the Commerce City School District for approximately 39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane. The property would be annexed into the city and rezoned from Jackson County E1 to City C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial). The commission will also discuss the Historic Preservation Ordinance Working Group's progress on a district map and design guidelines.

• Annexation of ~39.84 acres at 224 Country Club Lane (parcels 022 007Q, 022 007S, 022 015C) by Commerce City School District (PAX25-0003)
• Rezoning of same property from Jackson County E1 to City C-1 Neighborhood Commercial (PR25-0013)
• Discussion of Historic Preservation Ordinance Working Group's proposed district map and design guidelines

City Council

The Commerce City Council will vote on a rezoning condition modification for a 33.67-acre property on Old Harden Orchard Road, plus multiple contracts and agreements. Items include a power sale to Sandersville for 1MW excess power, adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update, and awards for demolition at Ridling Field ($59,500) and AMI electric meter installation ($80,952). A beer license change of ownership at 2034 North Broad Street is also on the agenda.

• Rezoning modification to encroach within 50-foot buffer on ±33.67 acres at Old Harden Orchard Road (Map/Parcel 020 007)
• MEAG Power Sale Agreement: sale of 1MW excess power to City of Sandersville for 2026
• Contract award to W.L. Griffin for Ridling Field Phase 1 demolition and site prep — $59,500
• Contract award to Bermex, Inc. for AMI Electric Meter installation — $80,952
• License to sell beer and wine by retail package at 2034 North Broad Street (Commerce In & Out, change of ownership)

The Commerce City Council met in a work session on October 6, 2025, hearing staff presentations on multiple proposed items including a power sale agreement, naming of the judicial wing, approval of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan update, a park demolition contract, electric meter installation, a rezoning condition modification, and a beer/wine license for a change of ownership. No votes were taken on any of these items; the only formal actions were to enter and exit executive session and adjourn.

• No substantive decisions made; all agenda items remain pending for a future meeting.

City Council

The City Council will decide on a rezoning condition modification to allow a buffer encroachment on approximately 33.67 acres. Other action items include awarding contracts for Ridling Field demolition ($59,500) and AMI electric meter installation ($80,952), approving a power sale to Sandersville, and adopting the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update.

• Consider approval of MEAG Power Sale Agreement to sell 1MW excess power to City of Sandersville for 2026
• Consider approval of resolution adopting the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update
• Consider award of contract for RFP 26-006 Ridling Field Phase 1 to W.L. Griffin for $59,500
• Consider award of contract to Bermex, Inc. for $80,952 for AMI electric meter installation
• Rezoning modification to allow encroachment within 50-foot buffer on +/-33.67 acres on Old Harden Orchard Road

The council unanimously approved the MEAG Power Sale Agreement to sell 1 MW of excess power to the City of Sandersville for calendar year 2026. It also unanimously approved naming the Judicial Wing after Judge Billy Chandler, adopted the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update, and approved several contracts and a rezoning condition change. The license to sell beer and wine at 2034 North Broad Street was approved with one dissenting vote.

• Approved MEAG Power Sale Agreement (1 MW to Sandersville, 2026) – passed unanimously
• Approved naming the Judicial Wing after Judge Billy Chandler – passed unanimously
• Approved adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update – passed unanimously
• Approved contract to W.L. Griffin for Ridling Field Phase 1 demolition ($59,500) – passed unanimously
• Approved contract to Bermex, Inc. for AMI electric meters ($80,952) – passed unanimously
• Approved rezoning condition modification for Old Harden Orchard Road parcel – passed unanimously
• Approved license for beer and wine sales at 2034 North Broad Street – passed (1 nay)
• Adjourned the meeting – passed unanimously

City Council

The Commerce City Council will consider several items including a major rezoning of approximately 161.8 acres on Ila Road from R3 to PUD, multiple contracts for janitorial services, water meter replacement, and road resurfacing, as well as various variance requests and street closures for community events.

• Rezoning of ~161.8 acres at Ila Road (Map/Parcels 010 002 and 010 046) from R3 to PUD (PR25-0010-PUD)
• Award of RFP 25-011 to Professional Meters, Inc. for $248,944.43 for AMI Water Meter Replacement Phase 1
• Award of RFP 25-008 to Sunbelt Asphalt Surface Inc. for $384,778.26 for resurfacing 14 local roadways
• Multiple variances requested by Terry R. Porter and Timothy Bassett for properties at 180 Bill Anderson Blvd and 635 Madison Street
• Street closures for National Night Out (August 5), Cruisin' Commerce Car Show (August 14), and Tiger on the Town Pep Rally (August 14)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hear several rezoning and variance requests, including a major rezoning of approximately 161.8 acres at Ila Road from R3 (Two-Family Residential) to PUD (Planned Unit Development). Other items include a commercial site plan update near Homer Road and Highway 441, and multiple variance requests for properties on Bill Anderson Blvd and Madison Street.

• PR25-0010-PUD: Rezone ~161.8 acres at Ila Road (Map/Parcels 010 002 & 010 046) from R3 to PUD
• PR25-0011: Updated site plan for ~20 acres at Homer Road Intersection & South of Hwy 441 in C2 district
• PV25-0001 & PV25-0002: Variance requests for rear yard (20 ft to 2 ft) and side yard (30 ft to 10 ft) at 180 Bill Anderson Blvd
• PV25-0003 through PV25-0006: Multiple variances for ~5.75 acres at 635 Madison Street, including use variance for attached dwellings and reductions in lot size, lot width, and side setback
• PR25-0004: Rezone ~23.4 acres at 1134 State Street from AR and C-2 to PUD

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for 23.4 acres at 1134 State Street from AR and C-2 to Planned Unit Development. Other items include a variance request for a front setback reduction at 10 Ivey Street, a minor final plat to divide 640 Hospital Road into 6 lots, and a major final plat for the Cotton Gin Row Subdivision at 635 Madison Street. Several previously considered items were either approved or denied by City Council or withdrawn.

• PR25-0004: Rezoning 23.4 acres at 1134 State Street to PUD
• PV25-0009: Variance to reduce front setback to 0 ft at 10 Ivey Street
• PFPMIN25-0002: Minor final plat for 640 Hospital Road dividing into 6 lots
• PFPMAJ25-0003: Major final plat for 9-lot Cotton Gin Row Subdivision at 635 Madison Street
• Withdrawn items: PR25-0012 (rezoning) and associated variances between Highway 441 and Belmont Park Drive

City Council

The Commerce City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan update, allowing residents to review proposed community changes. The council will also review a rezoning request for 1134 State Street, a cemetery relocation permit, and a road abandonment that affects local travel along Wheeler Cemetery Road. Additional items include a zoning variance for 10 Ivey Street, a sewer dedication at 635 Madison Street, and requests for special event zones and alcohol licenses.

• Public hearing on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan update
• Rezoning request (PR25-0004) for ~23.4 acres at 1134 State Street to Planned Unit Development
• Cemetery relocation permit for RP Bana 85 LLC from Parcel 047 006C to 1649 Wheeler Cemetery Rd
• Road abandonment for a portion of Wheeler Cemetery Road between Edwin Reynolds Road and Wheeler Lane
• Area variance request to reduce front setback to 0 feet at 10 Ivey Street

The City Council held a public hearing on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan and discussed a Planned Unit Development (PUD) rezoning for 1134 State Street. The council also heard a presentation on a cemetery relocation permit request.

• Public hearing held on 2025 Comprehensive Plan
• Public comment heard on PUD rezoning at 1134 State Street
• Cemetery relocation permit request presented for discussion

City Council

The Commerce City Council will consider a rezoning request for a 23.4-acre parcel at 1134 State Street from Agricultural Residential and General Commercial to Planned Unit Development. Other action items include a cemetery relocation permit, road abandonment on Wheeler Cemetery Road, a variance at 10 Ivey Street, and several event approvals and alcohol licenses. The meeting will also adopt the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update.

• Rezoning PR25-0004: 23.4 acres at 1134 State Street from AR and C-2 to PUD
• Cemetery relocation permit by RP Bana 85 LLC from parcel 047 006C to 1649 Wheeler Cemetery Rd
• Road abandonment of a portion of Wheeler Cemetery Road between Edwin Reynolds Road and Wheeler Lane
• Variance PV25-0009: reduce front setback to 0 feet at 10 Ivey Street
• Alcohol license: consumption on premise (beer & wine) for 1656 South Broad Street

The City Council approved the rezoning of approximately 23.4 acres at 1134 State Street to a Planned Unit Development, with several development conditions. It also approved street closures for the National Night Out event on August 19 and denied a request to relocate a cemetery. Additional approvals included a road abandonment segment of Wheeler Cemetery Road and the 2025 Comprehensive Plan update.

• Approved street closures for National Night Out (Little, Oak, Pine St, 4‑9 pm) – motion by Mark Fitzpatrick, second by Keith Burchett
• Approved rezoning of 23.4‑acre State Street site to PUD (5‑2 vote) – motion by Andre Rollins, second by Mark Fitzpatrick
• Denied RP Bana 85 LLC cemetery relocation permit (unanimous) – motion by Bobby Redmon, second by Mark Fitzpatrick
• Approved road abandonment of Wheeler Cemetery Road segment (unanimous) – motion by Bobby Redmon, second by Keith Burchett
• Approved 2025 Comprehensive Plan update – motion approved by council

Commerce Downtown Development Authority & Civic Center Tourism Authority

The agenda for the joint meeting of the Commerce Downtown Development Authority and Civic Center Tourism Authority contains only standard procedural items (call to order, roll call, approval of minutes, old/new business, director's report, executive session, adjournment). No substantive items or attachments with details are included in the provided text.

• Only procedural items listed; no specific decisions or proposals described

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request to modify conditions on a previously approved rezoning for approximately 33.67 acres on Old Harden Orchard Road, allowing encroachment within the 50-foot undisturbed buffer. The commission will also discuss a UDC amendment regarding historic preservation and approve the 2026 meeting dates.

• PR25-0012: Rezoning condition modification to encroach within 50-foot buffer on Old Harden Orchard Road (Map/Parcel 020 007)
• Discussion of UDC Amendment - Historic Preservation
• Approval of 2026 Planning Commission Meeting Dates
• Approval of July 2025 Planning Commission Minutes

Commerce Downtown Development Authority & Civic Center Tourism Authority

The Downtown Development Authority and Civic Center Tourism Authority will hold a regular monthly board meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, including approval of minutes and financials, with no new business listed. The board will also hold an executive session for real estate matters. Staff updates include Summer in the City, the GA Downtown Association Conference, and training sessions.

• Executive session for real estate negotiations
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Approval of financial reports
• Staff updates on Summer in the City event
• Staff updates on GA Downtown Association Conference and certification training

City Council

The Commerce City Council will hold a public hearing on the Wilson-Wheeler-King Cemetery relocation and consider several action items, including rezoning requests and contract awards. Key decisions include a proposed rezoning of approximately 161.8 acres on Ila Road from R3 to Planned Unit Development, and approval of contracts for janitorial services ($65,573.76), water meter replacement ($248,944.43), and road resurfacing ($384,778.26). The council will also vote on amendments to the city code, a gas capacity agreement, and multiple variance requests, several of which have been withdrawn or denied.

• Public hearing on Wilson-Wheeler-King Cemetery relocation
• Consider rezoning 161.8 acres at Ila Road from R3 to PUD (PR25-0010-PUD)
• Award $248,944.43 contract for AMI Water Meter Replacement Phase 1 to Professional Meters, Inc.
• Award $384,778.26 contract for resurfacing 14 local roadways to Sunbelt Asphalt Surface Inc.
• Consider updated site plan for 20 acres at Homer Road & Hwy 441 for general commercial use

The City Council voted 6-0 to rezone approximately 161.8 acres on Ila Road from R-3 to PUD, with 17 conditions including single-family homes, commercial uses, and traffic calming. The Council also awarded contracts for LMIG road resurfacing ($384,778), AMI water meter replacement ($248,944), and janitorial services ($65,574), and approved two natural gas capacity agreements, a litigation services contract, a purchasing policy revision, and a commercial site plan update. A public hearing on the Wilson-Wheeler-King Cemetery relocation was held but no decision was made.

• Approved rezoning 161.8 acres on Ila Road to PUD with 17 conditions (6-0)
• Approved $384,778 contract with Sunbelt Asphalt for resurfacing 2.61 miles of local roads (6-0)
• Approved $248,944 contract with Professional Meters for AMI water meter replacement (6-0)
• Approved $65,574 annual janitorial contract with Corporate Temps (6-0)
• Approved gas storage capacity agreement with Mississippi Hub effective Sept 2025 and additional capacity/supply agreement effective 2031 (both 6-0)
• Approved litigation services agreement with Stagg Liuzza LLC (6-0)
• Approved revision to purchasing policy raising formal procurement threshold to state level (6-0)
• Approved updated site plan for 20-acre commercial development at Homer Road and Hwy 441 (vote not recorded)

City Council

The Commerce City Council will hold a work session to consider setting the 2025 millage rate at 4.025 mills (full rollback), approving a tax levy resolution for school bonds, a water purchase agreement with Madison County, and a power sale agreement with Sandersville. Other items include donating Spencer Park parcel to the city, adopting a new employee handbook, and approving several street closures for community events. The council will also discuss term limits and hold an executive session on real estate.

• Set 2025 millage rate at 4.025 mills (full rollback)
• Approve Tax Levy Resolution for Commerce City Schools general obligation bonds
• Approve Madison County Water Purchase and Sale Agreement (36-month term, 2025-2028)
• Approve MEAG Power Sale Agreement – sale of excess power to City of Sandersville, GA
• Approve donation of Tax/Map Parcel # C13 035 (Spencer Park) to the City of Commerce

The City Council approved the 2025 millage rate at 4.025 mills, a full rollback, and a 36-month water purchase agreement with Madison County. The council also approved a power sale agreement with Sandersville and adopted a new Employee Handbook.

• Approved 2025 millage rate of 4.025 mills (5-0)
• Approved Madison County water purchase agreement (5-0)
• Approved MEAG Power sale agreement to Sandersville (5-0)
• Adopted new Employee Handbook effective Nov 1, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved donation of Spencer Park to City of Commerce (5-0)
• Approved Cherry Street parking lot closure for Cinemas on Cherry (5-0)
• Approved Hope Pregnancy Resource Center's Run for Hope 5K (5-0)
• Approved street closures for Commerce by Candlelight event (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider the FY26 Commerce City Budget and a parking lot refurbishment contract. Discussion items include establishing a downtown entertainment district and street closures for summer events.

• FY26 Commerce City Budget
• $37,932.83 bid award to Redmon Sealcoating for American Veterans Memorial Park parking lot
• Establishment of an Entertainment District in the Central Business District
• Street and parking closures for Summer in the City on June 27, 2025
• Fireworks Display Ordinance and Fee

City Council

This regular meeting includes a public hearing on the FY26 city budget, followed by a vote on its adoption. Council will also consider awarding a parking lot refurbishment contract for $37,932.83, establishing an entertainment district downtown, approving a fireworks display ordinance and fee, and several other agreements.

• Public hearing and consideration of FY26 City Budget
• Award bid to Redmon Sealcoating for $37,932.83 for American Veterans Memorial Park parking lot refurbishment
• Establishment of an Entertainment District within the downtown Central Business District
• 2025-2026 Memorandum of Understanding between GA Department of Community Affairs and Commerce Downtown Development Authority
• Street and parking space closures for Summer in the City Music & Fireworks on June 27, 2025 (2pm-midnight) on portions of Pine, Little, Oak, and S. Elm Streets

Commerce Land Bank

The Commerce Land Bank board will consider potential properties for acquisition. The board will address a vacancy on its membership. The board will set a deadline for application submissions and schedule interview dates for applicants.

• Consideration of potential Land Bank properties
• Discussion of board member vacancy
• Setting deadline for application submissions
• Scheduling interview dates for applicants

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan and consider several new business items. Key decisions include a rezoning request for a PUD on 23.4 acres, a cemetery relocation permit, and a road abandonment. The council will also vote on variances, sewer dedications, alcohol licenses, and special event requests.

• Public hearing on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update
• Rezoning request (PR25-0004) for PUD at 1134 State Street on ~23.4 acres
• Cemetery relocation permit to move burial ground from parcel 047 006C to 1649 Wheeler Cemetery Rd
• Road abandonment of a portion of Wheeler Cemetery Road between Edwin Reynolds Road and Wheeler Lane
• Variance request (PV25-0009) to reduce front setback to 0 feet at 10 Ivey Street

The City Council held a public hearing on the 2025 Comprehensive Plan and received public comments. Under unfinished business, the council discussed a rezoning request for a Planned Unit Development at 1134 State Street, but no action was taken. Under new business, the council discussed a cemetery relocation permit and a road abandonment request, also without a vote.

• No substantive decisions were made during this meeting.

Commerce Downtown Development Authority & Civic Center Tourism Authority

The Commerce Downtown Development Authority and Civic Center Tourism Authority will approve the June 23, 2025 meeting minutes and the financial statements. Staff will provide updates on music and fireworks, as well as the back‑to‑school bookbag program with CPD and the Jeep Club. The board will also discuss upcoming events such as Cruisin Commerce and the Fall Fest BackYard BBQ.

• Approval of June 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of financial statements
• Staff updates on music & fireworks
• Back‑to‑school bookbag program with CPD & Jeep Club
• Discussion of upcoming events: Cruisin Commerce and Fall Fest BackYard BBQ

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider several annexation and rezoning requests, most notably Cook Communities’ proposal to annex and rezone 180.766 acres on US Hwy 441 for 418 residential units and 14.5 acres of commercial. Staff recommends denial due to infrastructure, school, and traffic concerns. Other items include a 0.57-acre annexation on Lathan Road, a solar panel variance, a swimming pool placement variance, and a rezoning on Waterworks Road. The commission will also consider a variance and conditional use for townhomes on Ila Road.

• Annexation and rezoning of 180.766 acres on US Hwy 441 for 418 homes and commercial (staff recommends denial)
• Annexation and rezoning of 0.57 acres at 593 Lathan Road from A-2 to R-1
• Variance request for solar panels at 1036 Smallwood Drive
• Rezoning of 8.62 acres at 155 Waterworks Road from R-5 to R-6
• Variance for swimming pool placement at 145 Glencrest Drive

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider rezoning 22.58 acres at 1760 Steve Reynolds Boulevard from M-2 to C-2 to allow a private lodging facility for SK Battery America. The item was tabled in August for further discussion on regulations and public benefit. The commission will also discuss updates to the city's zoning ordinance, including environmental overlay districts and development permitting.

• Rezoning of 1760 Steve Reynolds Blvd, part of parcel 003 004A, from M-2 to C-2 for a private 103-room dormitory with conference center and amenities
• Public hearing on the SKBA lodging facility, which is not open to the general public
• Discussion of ordinance updates covering environmental overlays, development permitting, street standards, and cul-de-sac length
• Approval of minutes from the August 22 regular meeting and September 12 work session

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider two items: approval of the previously tabled 2023 Zoning Map and a Zoning Ordinance Update requested by Planning and Development. They will also approve minutes from the January 23, 2023 regular meeting.

• Consider approval of 2023 Zoning Map (unfinished business, previously tabled)
• Consider approval of Zoning Ordinance Update (new business)

The Planning Commission approved a draft of the Zoning Ordinance Update to move toward a Uniform Development Code model. The commission also tabled the 2023 Zoning Map until a study on rezoned properties is completed. All actions were decided unanimously.

• Approved Zoning Ordinance Update draft (5-0)
• Tabled 2023 Zoning Map until study complete (5-0)
• Requested standardization of house sizes chart across R-2 zones

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider preliminary plat approval for Whitemill Village (58 residential lots on US-441 and Whitehill School Road), annexation and rezoning of two parcels on Steve Reynolds Industrial Pkwy to M-1, annexation of 8155 Jefferson Road from A-2 to R-1, rezoning of multiple parcels from M-1 to M-2, and an amendment to the zoning ordinance regarding appeals. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes.

• Preliminary plat approval for Whitemill Village (58 lots, 20.1% greenspace) at US-441 and Whitehill School Road
• Annexation and rezoning of parcels 020002 and 008 on Steve Reynolds Industrial Pkwy to M-1
• Annexation of 8155 Jefferson Road (0.81 acres) from A-2 (county) to R-1 (city)
• Rezoning of parcels 032031A, 019C1C, 019C2, 019C, 019C1, 019C1B, 019C1D, 019001A3, and 019001A from M-1 to M-2
• Amendment to Chapter 5 of the Zoning Ordinance concerning appeals to decisions

The Planning Commission approved the preliminary plat for Whitemill Village, a 58-lot subdivision on minimum 3/4-acre lots with septic tanks and city water. They tabled two rezoning requests (Steve Reynolds Industrial Pkwy annexation to M-2, and M-1 to M-2 rezoning of multiple parcels) for more information. An annexation of 0.81 acres at 8155 Jefferson Road was approved, and an amendment to the zoning ordinance for appeals procedures was also approved. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved preliminary plat for Whitemill Village (58 lots) (unanimous)
• Tabled annexation & rezoning of Steve Reynolds Industrial Pkwy parcels to M-2 (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 0.81 acres at 8155 Jefferson Road from A-2 to R-1 (unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning of multiple parcels from M-1 to M-2 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Chapter 5 of Zoning Ordinance for appeals process (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will vote on annexing and rezoning two parcels on Maysville Road for Heavy Manufacturing (M-2) district. They will also consider a preliminary plat for Whitemill Village and an update to the Zoning Map. The meeting includes updates on previously approved city council actions.

• Annexation and rezoning of 5371 Maysville Rd. (4.389 acres) from Jackson County to M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing).
• Annexation and rezoning of 5427 Maysville Rd. (4.113 acres) from Jackson County to M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing).
• Consider approval of 2025 Zoning Map with updates.
• Preliminary plat approval for Whitemill Village on White Hill School Rd.

The Planning Commission unanimously approved four annexation requests and two rezoning applications for properties along Maysville Road, as well as a preliminary plat for Whitemill Village. The board also approved a conditional use permit for a convenience store with gas pumps at 738 Homer Road.

• Approved conditional use for convenience store with gas pumps at 738 Homer Road (conditions applied)
• Approved annexation of 5371 Maysville Rd (4.389 acres)
• Approved rezoning of 5371 Maysville Rd to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing District
• Approved annexation of 5427 Maysville Rd (4.113 acres)
• Approved rezoning of 5427 Maysville Rd to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing District
• Approved preliminary plat for Whitemill Village on White Hill School Rd
• Accepted minutes from January 27, 2025 meeting
• Approved Official Zoning Map with clerical error correction

C:Work Session

The City Council will consider awarding a $384,056 contract for Fire Station 2 buildout to Skye Construction, approve appointments to the Planning Commission, and vote on annexing and rezoning two parcels on Maysville Road to heavy manufacturing. Also up for discussion are alcohol license transfers, special event permits, and a cemetery relocation notification plan. All items are in the new business and discussion sections.

• Award of RFP 25-005 for Fire Station 2 buildout to Skye Construction Development LLC for $384,056
• Annexation and rezoning of 5371 Maysville Rd. (4.389 acres) to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing
• Annexation and rezoning of 5427 Maysville Rd. (4.113 acres) to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing
• Consideration of beer/wine license applications for Market ORama at 652 Hospital Road and Elm Food Mart at 517 South Elm Street
• Discussion of Bana Road Rooker Cemetery Relocation Notification Plan

The City Council held a work session where 14 items of new business were presented, including a fire station contract and zoning requests. All items were referred to the March 17, 2025, meeting for consideration. No substantive decisions were made on these proposals.

• Referred RFP 25-005 Fire Station 2 build out contract for Skye Construction Development Llc ($384,056)
• Referred appointments for three Planning Commission positions
• Referred adoption of Official Zoning Map
• Referred annexation and M-2 rezoning for 5371 Maysville Rd (D. William Properties, LLC)
• Referred annexation and M-2 rezoning for 5427 Maysville Rd (5427 Maysville, LLC)
• Referred beer and wine retail applications for Market O'Rama and Elm Food Mart
• Referred special event applications for Tiger Trot, King of Commerce Bike Show, and Easter Parade
• Referred declaration of April 2025 as Safe Digging Month and Touch-a-Truck event

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will decide whether to award a $384,056 contract to Skye Construction for Fire Station 2 build-out, consider annexing and rezoning two Maysville Road properties (totaling ~8.5 acres) for heavy manufacturing, and vote on adoption of the official zoning map, alcohol license transfers, and several special event permits.

• Award bid for Fire Station 2 build-out to Skye Construction for $384,056
• Annexation and rezoning of 5371 Maysville Rd (4.389 acres) to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing
• Annexation and rezoning of 5427 Maysville Rd (4.113 acres) to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing
• Adoption of the official Zoning Map
• New beer and wine license applications for Market ORama at 652 Hospital Road and Elm Food Mart at 517 South Elm Street

The Commerce City Council unanimously approved a $384,056 contract for Fire Station 2 build-out, annexed and rezoned two Maysville Road properties (totaling ~8.5 acres) to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing district, and appointed three members to the Planning Commission (5-0, one abstention). The council also approved alcohol licenses for two new store owners, several special events, and declared April 2025 as Safe Digging Month.

• Approved $384,056 Fire Station 2 build-out contract with Skye Construction Development (unanimous)
• Annexed and rezoned 5371 Maysville Rd (4.389 acres) to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing (unanimous)
• Annexed and rezoned 5427 Maysville Rd (4.113 acres) to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing (unanimous)
• Appointed Erin Moore, Jimbo Stephenson, and Mark Edwardson to Planning Commission through 2028 (5-0, Redmon abstained)
• Approved beer/wine licenses for Market ORama at 652 Hospital Rd and Elm Food Mart at 517 S Elm St (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Tiger Trot 5K, King of Commerce Bike Show, Touch-a-Truck, and Easter Parade events (unanimous)
• Declared April 2025 as Safe Digging Month (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider five items, including a request to annex and rezone 22.53 acres at 1532 Ridgeway Church Road from A-2 (county) to M-2 (city) for a warehouse. Also on the agenda are an annexation and rezoning for a lot line adjustment at 593 Lathan Road, a rezoning at 3787 Old Maysville Road, a rezoning on Mt. Olive Road, a noise variance for 1345 Church Street, and a subdivision plat approval at 168 M.L. King, Jr. Drive.

• Annexation and rezoning of 22.53 acres at 1532 Ridgeway Church Road from A-2 to M-2 for a warehouse
• Annexation and rezoning of 0.57 acres at 593 Lathan Road from A-2 to R-1 for a lot line adjustment
• Rezoning of 0.55 acres at 3787 Old Maysville Road from R-2 to C-2
• Rezoning of 10.83 acres on Mt. Olive Road from M-1 to R-4
• Variance request for noise ordinance decibel limits at 1345 Church Street

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will vote on several land-use items, including two annexation and rezoning requests, a large rezoning from commercial to industrial, and multiple variance requests. The board will also appoint a vice chairman and a new member. All items are listed as old or new business for decision.

• Rezoning of 101.47 acres at Homer Rd and Hwy 441 from C-2 to M-2
• Annexation and rezoning of 28.78 acres at 2364 Ridgeway Church Rd
• Annexation and rezoning of 0.62 acres on Commerce Rd
• Variance for setbacks at 400 Westwood Rd
• Variance for a CDL/Trucking School in overlay district at 3769 Maysville Rd

The Planning Commission denied a request to rezone 101 acres for a large warehouse, citing its prime commercial location and traffic impacts. It also denied a truck storage annexation on Ridgeway Church Rd (3-1) and approved a plat for Harmony Heights with conditions (3-1). A small annexation for a body shop storage was approved unanimously.

• Denied rezoning of 101.47 acres at Homer Rd and Hwy 441 from C-2 to M-2 for a warehouse (unanimous)
• Denied annexation and rezoning of 28.78 acres at 2364 Ridgeway Church Rd for truck storage (3-1)
• Approved plat for Harmony Heights subdivision, with condition to submit a new plat listing approved conditions (3-1)
• Approved annexation and rezoning of 0.62 acres at Commerce Rd to C-2 for body shop storage (unanimous)
• Approved January 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting with only procedural items: call to order, invocation, and approval of minutes from May 23 and July 6, 2022. The single substantive agenda item is a discussion of an ordinance update, with no further details provided.

• Approval of minutes from May 23, 2022 and July 6, 2022 meetings
• Discussion of ordinance update (no specifics given)

The Planning Commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the May 23 and July 6, 2022 meetings. The commission discussed various updates to the ordinance, including building materials, sign regulations, and administrative variances, though no formal votes on these updates were recorded.

• Approved May 23, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved July 6, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider a request to rezone 22.58 acres at 1760 Steve Reynolds Blvd from M-2 (industrial) to C-2 (commercial) to allow SK Battery America, Inc. to build a private lodging facility with 103 rooms, conference spaces, and amenities. Staff has concerns about water/sewer capacity, length of stay regulation, and the change not fitting the Industrial Workplace future land use. The commission will also discuss updates to the city's zoning ordinance, as noted in previous minutes.

• Rezoning request: 1760 Steve Reynolds Blvd, 22.58 acres, from M-2 to C-2 for private lodging facility (103 rooms, conference, spa, trails)
• Public hearing before City Council scheduled for September 19, 2022
• Staff concerns: water/sewer capacity, length of stay regulation, land use incompatibility (Industrial Workplace)
• Discussion of ordinance update: slab foundations, building materials, EIFS ban, sign regulations, variance procedures
• Approval of minutes from Planning Commission meetings of May 23, 2022 and July 6, 2022

The Planning Commission tabled a request to rezone 22.58 acres from M-2 to C-2 to allow a private dormitory for SKBA. The motion passed unanimously after discussion regarding long-term residency and spot zoning.

• Approved minutes from July 25, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning request for 1760 Steve Reynolds Blvd (unanimous)
• Scheduled work session for September 13 and September 26

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider three items: annexation of 38.885 acres at 1649 Wheeler Cemetery Road from county A-2 to city M-2 zoning, rezoning of 2.5 acres at 738 Homer Road from OCR to C-1, and approval of the Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and discussion of ordinance updates.

• Annexation of 1649 Wheeler Cemetery Road (parcel 047 009A), 38.885 acres, from A-2 county to M-2 city for Bana Road industrial development
• Rezoning of 738 Homer Road (parcel C08 010), 2.5 acres, from OCR to C-1
• Approval of Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat
• Approval of minutes from August 22, 2022 regular meeting and September 12, 2022 work session
• Discussion of ordinance update (environmental overlay districts, development permitting)

The Planning Commission approved the annexation of 38.885 acres at 1649 Wheeler Cemetery Road to the City of Commerce. The Commission also tabled a rezoning request for 738 Homer Road and a plat approval for Belmont Hills Phase 2 due to procedural issues.

• Approved annexation of 1649 Wheeler Cemetery Road (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning request for 738 Homer Road (5-0)
• Tabled Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat pending variance (5-0)
• Accepted August 22, 2022 minutes (5-0)
• Accepted September 12, 2022 work session minutes (5-0)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for 738 Homer Road from OCR to C-1, which was tabled at the previous meeting. They will also revisit the Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat approval, which was tabled pending a variance for sidewalk requirements, and consider a variance request for those sidewalks. Additionally, the commission will discuss dates for 2023 and updates to the city ordinance.

• Rezoning of 738 Homer Road, 2.5 acres from OCR to C-1 (parcel C08 010)
• Approval of Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat (tabled from Oct 24 meeting)
• Variance request for sidewalk requirements for Belmont Hills Phase 2 (22.74 acres)
• Discussion of 2023 meeting dates
• Ordinance update discussion, including mobile home park revisions and code enforcement

The Planning Commission unanimously denied a variance request to eliminate sidewalk requirements for a 22.74-acre project. Two other items regarding rezoning and a plat approval were tabled. The commission also established its 2023 meeting schedule.

• Denied variance for sidewalk requirements at Belmont Hills Phase 2 (Unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning of 738 Homer Road from OCR to C-1 (Unanimous)
• Tabled Belmont Hills Phase 2 Plat (Unanimous)
• Accepted Oct 24, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting dates

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider approving a rezoning of 2.5 acres at 738 Homer Road from OCR to C-1, a request that was tabled at the previous meeting. The commission will also consider approval of the Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat, also tabled. A discussion of an ordinance update is scheduled.

• Consider approval of rezoning 738 Homer Road, 2.5 acres, from OCR to C-1
• Consider approval of Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat
• Discussion of ordinance update related to subdivision regulations
• Approval of minutes from November 28, 2022 regular meeting

The Planning Commission unanimously denied a request to rezone 2.5 acres at 738 Homer Road from OCR to C-1 for a proposed gas station and retail space. The commission also tabled a plat approval for Belmont Hills Phase 2 pending a City Council variance decision.

• Approved minutes from Nov 28, 2022 meeting (Unanimous)
• Denied rezoning of 738 Homer Road from OCR to C-1 for gas station (Unanimous)
• Tabled Belmont Hills Phase 2 Plat (Unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will review several pending items, including the Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat that was tabled at the previous meeting. New business includes a conditional use request for an automobile repair shop at 1860 North Broad Street in the CBD, a variance request to replace a mobile home at 186 Woodbine Street in an R‑2 zone, and a proposal to adopt the 2023 Zoning Map. The agenda also lists an ordinance update discussion.

• Consider approval of Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat (unfinished business)
• Consider conditional use for an automobile repair shop at 1860 N Broad Street, Parcel C14‑034 (CBD)
• Consider variance for replacement of a mobile home at 186 Woodbine Street, Parcel C17‑117 (R‑2)
• Consider approval of the 2023 Zoning Map
• Ordinance update discussion

The commission unanimously approved the Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat. It also unanimously approved a conditional‑use request for an automobile repair shop at 1860 North Broad Street, with specific conditions. The commission denied a variance request for a mobile‑home replacement at 186 Woodbine Street. A proposal to adopt the 2023 zoning map was tabled.

• Approved Belmont Hills Phase 2 plat (unanimous)
• Approved conditional‑use for auto repair shop at 1860 N Broad St (unanimous)
• Denied variance for mobile‑home replacement at 186 Woodbine St (unanimous)
• Tabled adoption of 2023 zoning map (unanimous)

P:Special Called Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will hold a special called meeting to consider approval of Preliminary Plat PSP 24-0002 for BCS Madison St, located on Madison St (Parcel 010 024). The project includes removal of 29 specimen trees and requires 58 replacement trees per city code. No other business is on the agenda.

• Consider approval of preliminary plat PSP 24-0002 for BCS Madison St on Madison St, Parcel 010 024 (requested by Dillon Anthony)
• Project proposes removal of 29 specimen trees with 58 replacement trees required per City of Commerce Unified Development Code

The Commerce Planning Commission unanimously approved Preliminary Plat PSP 24-0002 for BCS Madison St. on Madison St. (Parcel #010 024). The staff reported that the checklist was completed, amended, and recommended approval. The plat meets minimum zoning requirements, and the Tree Save Plan and Landscape Plan were submitted and met requirements.

• Approved Preliminary Plat PSP 24-0002 for BCS Madison St. (2-0, with 3 absent; motion carried unanimously)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the annexation and rezoning of approximately 121 acres to Light Industrial District for a distribution center, subject to specific buffer conditions. The commission also recommended amendments to the Self Storage and Tree Save ordinances to the City Council.

• Approved annexation of ~91.35 acres (PAX24-0004) [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved rezoning to Light Industrial District (PR24-0013) [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved conditional use for distribution center (PC24-0004) [UNANIMOUS]
• Recommended Tree Save and Tree Bank ordinance amendments [UNANIMOUS]
• Recommended Self Storage ordinance amendments [UNANIMOUS]
• Recommended 2025 meeting dates to Council [UNANIMOUS]

C:Work Session

At the November 4, 2024 work session, the Commerce City Council will consider a range of items including a 2.9% electric utility rate increase, a water line agreement, a property deed on Church Street, a $96,850 contract for the Downtown Master Plan, and a joint mural project. The council will also review amendments to the Unified Development Code, an annexation of about 91 acres, rezoning of about 121 acres to Light Industrial, and a conditional use request for a distribution center. Additional items include an alcohol license renewal and a Georgia Municipal Employee Benefits System application.

• Approve 2.9% annual increase to electric utility rates (2025-2030)
• Approve intergovernmental agreement for water line improvements (~2,900 ft) on Hwy 98
• Award Downtown Master Plan contract to Robert & Company, up to $96,850
• Annex approximately 91.350 acres (PAX24-0004) for city expansion
• Rezone approximately 121.373 acres to Light Industrial (M-1) district

The council voted unanimously to withdraw Item #6 concerning amendments to the Unified Development Code. All other new‑business items were referred to the next council meeting on November 18, 2024. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Withdrawn Item #6 (UDC amendments) – unanimous vote
• Referred Item 1 (2.9% electric rate increase) – next meeting 11/18
• Referred Item 2 (Water line intergovernmental agreement) – next meeting 11/18
• Referred Item 3 (Deed transfer on Church Street) – next meeting 11/18
• Referred Item 4 (Downtown Master Plan bid award) – next meeting 11/18
• Referred Item 5 (Joint mural project) – next meeting 11/18
• Referred Item 7 (Annexation of ~91.35 acres) – next meeting 11/18
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous vote

C:Public Facility Authority

The Public Facility Authority will consider approving bond documents and issuing $8,310,000 in revenue bonds to finance the acquisition, construction and equipping of an athletic field house at Commerce High School. The bonds would be repaid by the School District through an installment sale agreement. The meeting agenda includes only this single new business item.

• Consideration of a resolution authorizing $8,310,000 in Revenue Bonds (School District of the City of Commerce Project) Series 2024
• Project involves building an athletic field house at Commerce High School
• Approval of related documents: Intergovernmental Installment Sale Agreement and Trust Indenture with Regions Bank
• Bonds will be sold via Raymond James & Associates, with repayment from school district payments

C:Special Called Meeting

The Commerce City Council is holding a special called meeting to consider approval of the 9th Annual Hometown Holiday Hustle 5K, scheduled for December 7, 2024. The race, which benefits the Commerce Girls Basketball program, would require street slowdowns on Cherry Street and surrounding areas. The only agenda item is this approval vote.

• Consider approval of 9th Annual Hometown Holiday Hustle 5K
• Event date: December 7, 2024
• Requested street slowdowns on Cherry Street
• Beneficiary: Commerce Girls Basketball program

The council approved a request for street slow-downs during the 9th Annual Hometown Holiday Hustle 5K on December 7, 2024, which benefits the Commerce Girls Basketball program. The request was made by City Clerk Sandra Haggard and supported by Commerce High School basketball coach Kevin Furtado. The measure passed unanimously.

• Approved 5K street slow-downs (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned unanimously

C:Work Session

The City Council will review several items including a donation for a new city park and a contract for recreation building renovations. Other discussion topics include road abandonment, software migration, and first responder benefits.

• Renovation of recreation buildings at American Veterans Memorial Park for $149,405
• Annual subscription fee of $40,860 for BS&A Cloud system migration
• Acceptance of +/- 0.40 acres at MLK Jr Drive and Homer Road for a perpetual city park
• Abandonment of Billy Booth Road to be deeded to property owner
• Resolution for Georgia Interlock Risk Management Agency (GIRMA) membership for PTSD benefits

The council considered eight items—including a recreation‑building contract, a cloud‑service agreement, a land donation, road abandonment, a GIRMA membership resolution, an ordinance amendment, 2025 meeting dates, and a leaf‑pickup policy—and referred each for further action at the next meeting on Dec. 16, 2024. No items were approved, denied, or enacted. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Referred RFP 25-001 for recreation building renovation (next 12/16/2024)
• Referred BS&A Cloud Agreement subscription ($40,480) (next 12/16/2024)
• Referred acceptance of ~0.40‑acre donation for park (next 12/16/2024)
• Referred abandonment of Billy Booth Road (next 12/16/2024)
• Referred resolution to join GIRMA for first‑responder PTSD benefits (next 12/16/2024)
• Referred ordinance amending Code of Ordinances, Article VI (next 12/16/2024)
• Referred 2025 council, boards, and authority meeting dates (next 12/16/2024)
• Referred discussion of limb and brush pick‑up policy (next 12/16/2024)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider multiple rezoning, annexation, and conditional use requests, including a convenience store/grocery store at 652 Hospital Road and retail and public facility proposals on US Highway 441S and Haggard Road. The commission will also vote on amendments to the Unified Development Code regarding self-storage and tree protection. Previous council actions on annexation and rezoning for a distribution center were already approved.

• Consider rezoning 0.74 acres at 652 Hospital Road from R-2 to C-1 for a convenience store/grocery store (PR24-0012).
• Consider conditional use permit for a convenience store/grocery store at 652 Hospital Road (PC24-0003).
• Consider annexation of 2.04 acres on US Highway 441S for retail trade (PAX24-0005).
• Consider rezoning 2.428 acres at 738 Homer Road from OCR to C-2 for a convenience store with pumps (PR24-0016).
• Consider amendments to UDC Article 3 Sec. 3-067 (Self Storage) and Article 9 Division II (Tree Protection).

The Planning Commission unanimously approved rezoning 0.74 acres at 652 Hospital Road from R-2 to C-1 and a conditional use permit for a convenience store/grocery without fuel pumps (both 4-0). Also approved annexation and rezoning of 2.04 acres on US Highway 441S for a retail trade establishment (4-0), and annexation of 41.87 acres on Haggard Road for a new city wastewater plant (4-0). A rezoning request for 738 Homer Road was tabled to allow the applicant to pursue a conditional use permit under existing OCR zoning (4-0). All recommendations will go to City Council on January 6, 2025.

• Approved rezoning 652 Hospital Rd from R-2 to C-1 (4-0)
• Approved conditional use for convenience store/grocery without fuel pumps (4-0)
• Approved annexation of 2.04 acres on US Highway 441S (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of 2.04 acres on US Highway 441S from HRC to C-2 (4-0)
• Tabled rezoning request for 738 Homer Rd to C-2 to allow applicant to apply for conditional use in OCR (4-0)
• Approved annexation of 41.87 acres on Haggard Road for public facility/wastewater plant (4-0)

C:Regular Meeting

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed closure of Billy Booth Road and consider several action items, including awarding a $149,405 contract for recreation building renovations, migrating to a BS&A Cloud system at $40,860 per year, and accepting a donated 0.40-acre parcel for a park. The council will also vote on an ordinance to provide indemnity for elected and appointed officials and a resolution to join GIRMA for PTSD disability benefits for first responders.

• Public hearing on closure of Billy Booth Road (parcels 033 029 and 033 029A)
• Award of RFP 25-001 for recreation buildings renovation to Emery & Associates for $149,405
• BS&A Cloud system migration agreement with annual subscription fee of $40,860
• Acceptance of donated 0.40-acre parcel at MLK Jr Drive and Homer Road for a perpetual city park
• Resolution to join GIRMA fund providing PTSD disability benefits to first responders

The City Council approved a $149,405 contract for recreation building renovations and accepted a donation of 0.40 acres for a perpetual city park. Other actions included approving a cloud system subscription and the abandonment of Billy Booth Road.

• Approved $149,405 contract to Emery & Associates for Recreation Buildings Renovation (Unanimous)
• Approved BS&A Cloud system migration with annual subscription fee of $40,860 (Unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of +/- 0.40 acres at MLK Jr Drive and Homer Road for a perpetual city park (Unanimous)
• Approved abandonment of Billy Booth Road and deeding to property owner (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution for GIRMA membership to provide PTSD disability benefits to first responders (Unanimous)
• Approved ordinance adding Article VI regarding Indemnity and Defense of Elected and Appointed Officials (Unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Council, Boards and Authority meeting dates (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Nov 18, Dec 2 (Work Session), and Dec 2 (Special Called Meeting) (Unanimous)

C:Mayor and City Council Retreat

This is a retreat for the Mayor and City Council. They will discuss attending training classes in Atlanta from January 24-27, 2025. No votes or ordinances are scheduled. The meeting is procedural.

• Discussion of attending training classes in Atlanta, January 24-27, 2025
• Review of 2024 retreat schedule, 9am-3pm at Omni Atlanta

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will meet on January 27, 2025, to vote on a conditional use for a convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road (old business) and consider new business: a conditional use for a convenience store with gas pumps at 738 Homer Road, a conditional use for a small ammunition manufacturer at 1316 Steven B. Tanger Boulevard, adoption of the official zoning map, and election of chair and vice chair.

• Conditional use for convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road (old business, previously approved by City Council but returned for PC vote)
• Conditional use permit for convenience store with gas pumps and 3 suites at 738 Homer Road
• Conditional use permit for small ammunition manufacturer on 12.94 acres at 1316 Steven B. Tanger Boulevard
• Consider adoption of the Official Zoning Map
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair of Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for a convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road. A separate request for a convenience store with gas pumps at 738 Homer Road was referred to City Council with specific ingress and egress conditions. Requests for an ammunition manufacturer and the adoption of the Official Zoning Map were tabled.

• Approved conditional use for convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road (Unanimous)
• Referred conditional use for convenience store with gas pumps at 738 Homer Road to City Council with specific ingress/egress and landscaping conditions (Unanimous)
• Tabled conditional use for ammunition manufacturer at 1316 Steven B. Tanger Boulevard (Unanimous)
• Tabled adoption of the Official Zoning Map (Unanimous)
• Approved keeping current Chairman and Vice Chairman for 2025 (4-0)
• Approved minutes from Dec 9, 2024 meeting (Unanimous)

C:Work Session

This work session agenda includes multiple rezoning requests, a construction contract for the Chaney Park Pavilion ($315,000), and amendments to employee retirement and benefit plans. The council will also consider a special event permit, a library board appointment, and street closures. Public comment will be heard on the highest and best use of 1269 S Elm Street, which is also subject to a rezoning request.

• Award $315,000 construction contract to Lyell Construction Group for Chaney Park Pavilion at 126 Ridgeway Street
• Rezoning PR25-0004: 23.4 acres at 1134 State Street to Planned Unit Development (PUD)
• Rezoning PR25-0006 & PR25-0007: ~116 acres total on Hardman Orchard Road & Hwy 98 to Heavy Manufacturing (M-2)
• Rezoning PR25-0003: 1.22 acres at 1269 S Elm Street to General Commercial (C-2)
• Rezoning PR25-0005: 0.25 acres at 76 High Street to Central Business District (CBD)

The Commerce City Council held a work session on May 5, 2025, where all 13 action items were presented and discussed but no final votes were taken. Each item, including a pavilion contract, retirement plan amendments, multiple rezoning requests, and a special event permit, was formally referred to the next regular meeting on May 19. One public comment was heard regarding rezoning at 1269 South Elm Street.

• Chaney Park pavilion construction contract ($315,000) referred to May 19
• Amendments to GMEB retirement plan referred to May 19
• OPEB benefit agreement changes referred to May 19
• Appointment of HR director as pension secretary referred
• Special event permit for antique auction on Little Street parking lot referred
• Library board appointment of Kelly Lacey referred
• Sewer line dedication for Lakeview Drive properties referred
• Closure of Washington Street (June 2–3 weeks) referred

C:Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider a power sale agreement with the City of Robertsdale, Alabama, and award a $315,000 construction contract for the Chaney Park Pavilion. Six rezoning requests are up for action, including two for heavy manufacturing on Hardman Orchard Road. Other items include amendments to the GMEB retirement plan, an OPEB benefit agreement, and a street closure for a GDOT project.

• Power Sale Agreement with City of Robertsdale, Alabama
• Contract award to Lyell Construction Group for Chaney Park Pavilion project – $315,000
• Rezoning PR25-0003: 1269 South Elm Street from OCR to C-2 for automobile service
• Rezoning PR25-0004: 1134 State Street from AR/C-2 to PUD on ~23.4 acres
• Rezoning PR25-0006 & PR25-0007: Two parcels on Hardman Orchard Road & Hwy. 98 from AR to M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing) totaling ~115.8 acres

The Commerce City Council unanimously denied a request to rezone 1269 South Elm Street from OCR to C-2 for automobile service, and tabled a separate PUD rezoning for 1134 State Street pending more information from the Planning Commission. The council also approved a $315,000 contract for the Chaney Park pavilion, a five-year power sale agreement with Robertsdale, Alabama, and multiple other items including retirement plan amendments, street closures, and rezonings for city events and heavy manufacturing.

• Denied rezoning at 1269 South Elm Street from OCR to C-2 for auto service (unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning of 1134 State Street from AR/C-2 to PUD for more information (unanimous)
• Approved $315,000 Chaney Park pavilion construction contract with Lyell Construction (unanimous)
• Approved 5-year power sale agreement with Robertsdale, AL for 2.002 MW at $65/MWh (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 76 High Street from M-1 to CBD for city events (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of two parcels on Hardman Orchard Road from AR to M-2 heavy manufacturing (unanimous)
• Approved closure of Washington Street (Hood St to Jefferson Rd) for 2-3 weeks starting June 2 (unanimous)
• Approved special event permit and closure of Little Street parking lot for June 20-21 antique auction (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will deliberate seven annexation, rezoning, and variance requests, including a proposal to rezone 8.62 acres at 155 Waterworks Road from R-5 to R-6 for 64 townhomes (staff recommends tabling due to green space issues). Other items include annexation of 593 Lathan Road (0.57 acres A-2 to R-1) and a variance/conditional use for 161.95 acres on Ila Road for townhomes. The commission also will vote on rezonings for Duncan Circle and Maysville Road.

• Rezoning 155 Waterworks Road (8.62 acres R-5 to R-6) for 64 townhomes; staff recommends tabling
• Annexation and rezoning 593 Lathan Road (0.57 acres A-2 to R-1)
• Variance and conditional use for Ila Road (161.95 acres for townhomes and setbacks)
• Rezoning Duncan Circle (21.281 acres R-1 to R-6)
• Annexation and rezoning Maysville Road (0.62 acres A-2 to C-2)

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to deny a variance and conditional use request for a 161.95-acre townhome development on Ila Road. It also denied a rezoning of 21.281 acres on Duncan Circle (R-1 to R-6) and approved annexations on Maysville Road and Homer Road. Two items were referred to the next meeting, and one variance request was withdrawn.

• Referred annexation and rezoning of 593 Lathan Road (0.57 acres, A-2 to R-1) to 8/30/2021
• Referred rezoning of 155 Waterworks Road (8.62 acres, R-5 to R-6) to 8/30/2021
• Withdrawn variance request for swimming pool placement at 145 Glencrest Drive
• Denied variance and conditional use for Ila Road (161.95 acres, town homes) (3-0)
• Denied rezoning from R-1 to R-6 on Duncan Circle (21.281 acres) (3-0)
• Approved annexation from A-2 County to C-2 City and variances for Maysville Road (0.62 acres) (3-0)
• Approved annexation and rezoning from HRC County to C-2 City for 2377 Homer Rd (0.62 acres) (3-0)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider several rezoning and annexation requests at its August 23, 2021 meeting. The most significant item is a request to rezone 8.62 acres at 155 Waterworks Road from R-5 to R-6 to allow 64 townhomes; staff recommends tabling due to incomplete green space details. Other items include annexation and rezoning of 0.57 acres at 593 Lathan Road from county A-2 to city R-1, a rezoning and variance for 19.502 acres at 935 Homer Road, a conditional use permit for a religious institution at 821 S. Elm Street, and a subdivision plat approval on Hospital Road.

• Rezoning of 8.62 acres at 155 Waterworks Road from R-5 to R-6 for 64 townhomes (staff recommends tabling)
• Annexation and rezoning of 0.57 acres at 593 Lathan Road from county A-2 to city R-1
• Rezoning and variance request for 19.502 acres at 935 Homer Road from R-1 to R-5
• Conditional use permit for a religious institution at 821 S. Elm Street (5.76 acres)
• Subdivision plat approval to subdivide 1.68 acres on Hospital Road into 3 lots

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider approval of August meeting minutes, receive updates on City Council actions including the annexation/rezoning of 687 Delia Drive and the rezoning of 562, 580, and 600 Homer Road to C-2, and a status report on the Unified Development Code. The commission will then discuss sign regulations and infill lot development.

• Consider approval of minutes from August 28 meeting
• Update on PAX23-0004 & PR23-0015: Annexation and Rezoning to R-1 at 687 Delia Drive
• Update on PR23-0013: Rezone 562, 580, and 600 Homer Road from OCR to C-2
• Status report on Unified Development Code (UDC)
• Discussion on signs and infill lots

The Planning Commission approved the August meeting minutes and discussed updates on City Council actions regarding annexation, rezoning, and the Unified Development Code. The meeting focused on proposed revisions to sign regulations and infill development standards.

• Approved August 28 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Received report on 687 Delia Drive annexation and rezoning (approved by Council)
• Received report on 562, 580, and 600 Homer Road rezoning (approved by Council)
• Received report on Unified Development Code and permitting fees (approved by Council)
• Discussed temporary sign rules for business parks
• Discussed sign limits for churches in residential zones
• Discussed infill development distance standards (reaffirmed 750 feet)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:42 p.m. (5-0)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will vote on a property annexation and two rezoning requests, discuss sign regulations, and approve prior meeting minutes and 2024 meeting dates. The most notable item is annexing 252 Bradberry Court (approx. 0.9 acres) from Jackson County into the city for school attendance. Staff recommends approval for the annexation and companion rezoning, but recommends denial of a separate rezoning of a View Street parcel from light industrial to multi-family residential, citing incompatibility with the comprehensive plan and potential spot zoning.

• Annexation of 252 Bradberry Court (PAX23-0005) – 0.9 acres from county to city for school access
• Rezoning 252 Bradberry Ct from County R-1 to City R-1 (PR23-0016) – companion to annexation
• Rezoning View St. parcel C06 008A from M-1 (Light Industrial) to R-4 (Multi-Family) (PR23-0024) – staff recommends denial
• Discussion on city sign regulations
• Approval of 2024 Planning Commission meeting dates

The Planning Commission approved the annexation and rezoning of 252 Bradberry Court to R-1 Single Family Residential. A request to rezone a parcel on View Street from M-1 to R-4 was denied. The commission also approved the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Approved annexation of 252 Bradberry Court (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 252 Bradberry Court to R-1 (unanimous)
• Denied rezoning of Parcel C06 008A View St. from M-1 to R-4 (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 meeting dates (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will discuss and make recommendations on several rezoning requests, including a 86-acre parcel at White Hill School Road sent back by City Council, a 23.4-acre mixed-use PUD at 1134 State Street, and a 1.5-acre multifamily rezoning on Bolton Drive. Also on the agenda are a variance for stream buffer encroachment on Duncan Circle and updates to the Unified Development Code.

• Reconsideration of PR24-0003: Rezone ~86 acres at White Hill School Road and Highway 441 from R-1 to R-2, with conditions (sent back by City Council)
• PR24-0007: Rezone ~23.4 acres at 1134 State Street to Planned Unit Development for mixed-use (commercial, town homes, single-family)
• PR24-0010: Rezone ~1.5 acres at 177 Bolton Drive from C-1 to R-4 (Multi-Family Residential)
• PR24-0009 and PV24-0003: Rezone ~21.5 acres at 0 Duncan Circle from R-1 to R-2 and variance for stream buffer encroachment
• Consideration of updates to the Unified Development Code

The Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for approximately 86 acres at White Hill School Road and Highway 441 to R-1 zoning with 11 specific conditions. The commission also approved the re-adoption of the Unified Development Code and unanimously denied three other rezoning requests.

• Approved White Hill School Road rezoning (4-0)
• Denied 1134 State Street PUD request (5-0)
• Denied 177 Bolton Drive multi-family rezoning (5-0)
• Tabled Duncan Circle R-1 to R-2 rezoning (5-0)
• Tabled Duncan Circle stream buffer variance (5-0)
• Approved re-adoption of UDC with amendments (5-0)
• Accepted July 22, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 PM (5-0)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will review updates on recent City Council actions, including the re‑adoption of the Unified Development Code with amendments and the termination of the zoning moratorium. It will consider old‑business rezoning recommendations for approximately 21.5 acres at Duncan Circle. New business includes consideration of final plats for Harmony Heights and Austin Ridge Subdivision, and a preliminary plat for BCS Madison St. The commission will also discuss self‑storage and tree‑save topics.

• Re‑adoption of the Unified Development Code with amendments and termination of zoning moratorium – Council approved unanimously on 09/16/24
• Rezoning application PR 24-0003 for Whitemill Village: R‑1 to R‑2 approved unanimously
• Rezoning application PR24-0010 for 177 Bolton Street: C‑1 to R‑4 denied unanimously
• Recommendation PR24-0009: rezoning ~21.5 acres at 0 Duncan Circle from R‑1 to R‑2
• Consider approval of Final Plat PFPMAJ 24-0001 for Harmony Heights on Mount Olive Road

The Commerce Planning Commission approved the final plats for the Harmony Heights and Austin Ridge subdivisions, each with a unanimous 5‑to‑0 vote. It denied the rezoning application for approximately 21.5 acres at Duncan Circle with a 0‑to‑5 vote. The commission also denied a related variance, tabled a preliminary plat for Madison Street, and tabled the minutes and self‑storage/tree‑save plans.

• Approved final plat Harmony Heights (PFPMAJ 24-0001) – APPROVED [5 to 0]
• Approved final plat Austin Ridge Subdivision (PFPMAJ 24-0002) – APPROVED [5 to 0]
• Denied rezoning PR24-0009 (approx. 21.5 acres at Duncan Circle) – DENIED [0 to 5]
• Denied variance PV24-0003 (stream buffer encroachment) – DENIED [0 to 5]
• Tabled preliminary plat PSP 24-0002 (Madison St) – TABLED [5 to 0]
• Tabled minutes from previous meeting – TABLED [5 to 0]
• Tabled self‑storage and tree‑save plans – TABLED (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting – ADJOURNED (unanimous)

C:Work Session

The City Council will consider several fee increases and a major infrastructure contract. They will vote on an agreement to allow improvements at Ashworth Glen Mobile Home Park, a new electric line extension contract for $278,905.50, and fee hikes for cemetery lots, electric taps, and civic center rentals. An ordinance amendment and a 5K run request are also on the agenda.

• Agreement for development of Ashworth Glen Mobile Home Park at 935 Homer Road
• Increase cemetery lot fee to $1,500 for residents, $2,500 for non-residents
• Increase electric tap fee to $1,000 for new residential developments
• Award electric line extension bid to Southern Utility Group for $278,905.50
• Amend city ordinance Section 14 for state mandated code amendments

The City Council held a work session where seven items were discussed but not voted on. All items were referred to the next meeting on April 21, 2025. The council also unanimously voted to enter and exit an executive session for personnel discussion.

• Referred Ashworth Glen Mobile Home Park agreement to next meeting
• Referred City Cemetery Fee increases to next meeting
• Referred Electric Tap Fee increase to next meeting
• Referred Civic Center Event Space Rental Fees to next meeting
• Referred Electric line extension RFP to next meeting
• Referred State mandated code amendments to next meeting
• Referred 5K Run permit request to next meeting
• Unanimously entered executive session for personnel discussion

C:Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider an agreement for the development of Ashworth Glen Mobile Home Park at 935 Homer Road, along with new cemetery and electric tap fees, and a civic center rental fee. They will also vote on awarding a $278,905.50 contract for an electric line extension to serve Grove Creek WPCP and consider amending City Ordinance Section 14 to adopt state mandated code changes. A street closure for Washington Street due to GDOT construction and a special event permit for the Jackson County Boys and Girls Club 5K run are also on the agenda.

• Consider approval of agreement for Ashworth Glen Mobile Home Park (935 Homer Road / Parcel C08 007)
• Consider approval of RFP 25-007 electric line extension to Grove Creek WPCP – award to Southern Utility Group for $278,905.50
• Consider approval of City Cemetery Fees and Electric Tap Fees
• Consider approval of amendment to City Ordinance Section 14 for state mandated code amendments
• Consider approval of closure of Washington Street for GDOT intersection construction

The council voted unanimously to close Washington Street to through traffic for a Georgia DOT intersection project. It also approved agreements for a mobile home park, new cemetery and electric tap fees, a civic‑center rental schedule, a utility contract, an ordinance amendment, and a 5K race street slowdown. All actions were recorded as unanimous approvals.

• Approved Washington Street closure for GDOT project (unanimous)
• Approved agreement for Ashworth Glen Mobile Home Park development (unanimous)
• Approved new city cemetery fees (unanimous)
• Approved increase in electric tap fees to $1,000 for new residential developments (unanimous)
• Approved civic center event space rental fee schedule (unanimous)
• Approved award of RFP 25-007 to Southern Utility Group for $278,905.50 electric line extension (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to City Ordinance Section 14 to adopt state‑mandated code amendments (unanimous)
• Approved Jackson County Boys and Girls Club "Run to Greatness" 5K street slowdowns (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider five rezoning applications at its April 28 meeting. Three rezonings involve heavy manufacturing (M-2) on tracts along Hardman Orchard Road and Highway 98, totaling over 115 acres. Other requests include a 23.4-acre parcel on State Street for a Planned Unit Development and a 1.22-acre lot on South Elm Street for general commercial auto service. The commission will also approve February meeting minutes and receive an update on prior City Council actions.

• PR25-0003: Rezone 1.22 acres at 1269 South Elm Street from OCR to C-2 for automobile service
• PR25-0004: Rezone 23.4 acres at 1134 State Street from AR and C-2 to PUD (Planned Unit Development)
• PR25-0005: Rezone 0.25 acres at 76 High Street from M-1 to CBD (Central Business District)
• PR25-0006: Rezone 18.04 acres on Hardman Orchard Road & Hwy 98 from AR to M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing)
• PR25-0007: Rezone 97.79 acres on Hardman Orchard Road & Hwy 98 from AR to M-2 (Heavy Manufacturing)

The Planning Commission denied a request to rezone a 1.22-acre property at 1269 South Elm Street to allow automobile service in a C-2 district, citing spot zoning. The Commission also denied a request to rezone 23.4 acres at 1134 State Street to a Planned Unit Development, citing high density and inadequate parking.

• Denied rezoning at 1269 South Elm Street (PR25-0003) [4 TO 0]
• Denied rezoning at 1134 State Street (PR25-0004) [4 TO 0]
• Accepted minutes from Feb 24, 2025 meeting [4 TO 0]
• Adopted appointment of Robert Michael Edwardson to Planning Commission [UNANIMOUS]

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider approval of variance PV23-0013 to allow an outdoor salvage yard on about 3.076 acres at 3701 Maysville Rd. It will also review proposed amendments to the Unified Development Code, including changes to sign regulations and the creation of a new article on abandoned cemeteries. Additional items include updates on recent City Council annexation and rezoning actions, a zoning map update scheduled for January 2024, and reports on the Tree Bank and Tree Save programs.

• PV23-0013 variance to permit outdoor salvage yard on ~3.076 acres at 3701 Maysville Rd.
• Proposed UDC amendments: repeal/replace Article 17 (signs), amend Article 2 Table 2‑1B (commercial/industrial uses), create Article 12 (abandoned cemeteries).
• City Council actions: annexation and rezoning of 252 Bradberry Court to R‑1; rezoning of Parcel C06 008A View St. from M‑1 to R‑4.
• Discussion of Zoning Map Update planned for January 2024.
• Updates on Tree Bank and Tree Save initiatives.

The Commission referred several Unified Development Code (UDC) amendments to the City Council, including a new article regarding abandoned cemeteries. A variance request for an unpaved outdoor salvage yard was tabled for further investigation.

• Approved Oct 23, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Tabled variance for outdoor salvage yard at 3701 Maysville Rd (Unanimous)
• Referred UDC amendments regarding signs, lighting, and abandoned cemeteries to City Council

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning application (PR23-0028) to change the zoning of 1.59 acres at 1029 S. Elm St. from OCR (Office, Commercial and Residential District) to C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial District) for use as a special event facility. Staff recommends tabling the item because the updated site plan was received too late for proper review. The commission will also approve minutes from its November 27, 2023 regular meeting.

• Rezoning PR23-0028 for 1029 S. Elm St. (Map/Parcel C12 047) from OCR to C-1 for a special event facility with up to 110 guests (staff recommends tabling)

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will consider a $12 million Georgia Environmental Finance Authority loan for a new wastewater treatment plant, approve a grant to resurface 12 streets, and hold a public hearing on House Bill 581. Other items include rezoning, annexations, and a municipal court fee increase.

• Consider approval of $12,000,000 GEFA Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan for new wastewater treatment plant
• Consider approval of 2025 LMIG grant to resurface portions of 12 streets (approx. 2.66 miles)
• Rezoning and conditional use permit for convenience store/grocery at 652 Hospital Road (0.74 acres)
• Annexation and rezoning of 41.87 acres on Haggard Road for public facility
• Increase of municipal court processing fee to offset court costs

The council unanimously approved a $12 million GEFA loan to fund a new wastewater treatment plant, along with a street resurfacing project covering 2.66 miles and an increase in municipal court processing fees. They rezoned 652 Hospital Road to C-1 for a convenience store but tabled the conditional use permit, sending it back to the planning commission. Right-of-way encroachment permits at 702 and 716 Hospital Road were denied. Several annexations, rezoning, UDC amendments, and appointments to the housing authority were also approved.

• Approved $12M GEFA loan for new wastewater treatment plant (unanimous)
• Approved LMIG resurfacing of 2.66 miles of streets (unanimous)
• Approved increase in municipal court processing fee (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 652 Hospital Rd to C-1 (unanimous)
• Tabled conditional use permit at 652 Hospital Rd for planning commission review (unanimous)
• Denied right-of-way encroachment permits at 702 & 716 Hospital Rd (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 41.87 acres on Haggard Rd for wastewater plant (unanimous)
• Approved UDC amendments for self-storage and tree protection (unanimous)

C:Cities United Summit

The City Council is attending the Cities United Summit conference and training classes from January 23-27, 2025. No substantive decisions, ordinances, or contracts are on the agenda.

• Mayor and City Council attending Cities United Summit conference and training classes

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will consider several action items at its March 18, 2024 regular meeting, including a partnership with Reboot Jackson to install Narcan boxes at seven city buildings at no cost, approval of $24,000 LMIG grant for paving 1.01 miles of four streets, purchase of 76 High Street for $24,000 plus additional funds for survey, tree removal, and demolition, and a cost-neutral change to city hall hours adding 20+ hours for in-person payments. The council will also vote on a church bell relocation, a Safe Digging Month proclamation, and a comprehensive plan update agreement.

• Narcan station partnership: Reboot Jackson to supply, install, and maintain 7 boxes at City Hall, Library, Planning & Utilities, Cultural Center, Fire Dept, and Civic Center at no cost
• LMIG Grant: approval of $24,000 for paving 1.01 miles on 4 streets
• Purchase of 76 High Street: $24,000 for 0.25 acres plus funds for survey, tree removal, and demolition
• City Hall hours change: cost-neutral expansion adding 20+ hours for in-person payments
• Parking lot closure: Wilhard Street and parking lot closed April 15 – May 24 for transformer, generator, paving, painting

The City Council approved seven items including Narcan station installation, street closures for construction, and the purchase of a downtown property. The meeting also included the approval of previous meeting minutes and a unanimous executive session.

• Approved Narcan boxes at 6 city buildings (unanimous)
• Approved closing Willhard Street parking lot April 15–May 24 (unanimous)
• Approved closing Sycamore Street April 23 for Touch a Truck (unanimous)
• Approved changing City Hall hours to 7:30am–6:00pm (unanimous)
• Approved $3,000 agreement for 2025 Comprehensive Plan update (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Open Records Officer (unanimous)
• Approved 2023-2025 Defined Benefit Retirement Plan restatement (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 76 High Street for $100,000 (unanimous)

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will hold a public hearing and consider setting the 2024 millage rate at 4.104 mills. They will also decide on a $441,110.57 street paving contract, changes to employee medical benefits, re-adoption of the UDC with amendments to end the zoning moratorium, and several rezoning requests. One rezoning application (PR24-0007) has been withdrawn.

• Consider approval of 2024 millage rate at 4.104 mills
• Consider bid award for 2024 LMIG/LRA Street Paving to Summit Construction for $441,110.57 covering 11 streets (2.268 miles)
• Consider changes to employee medical benefit coverage
• Consider re-adoption of the UDC with amendments and termination of the zoning moratorium
• Consider rezoning of ~86 acres at White Hill School Road and Hwy 441 from R-1 to R-2 (with conditions)

The City Council approved a rezoning of approximately 86 acres at White Hill School Road and Highway 441 from R-1 to R-2, allowing up to 99 single-family homes with minimum 2,300 sq ft, a 20% rental cap, and a 40-foot buffer. The council also set the 2024 millage rate at 4.104 mills and awarded a $441,110.57 street paving contract to Summit Construction for 11 streets. Rezoning for 1.5 acres at 177 Bolton Drive was denied, and a mixed-use PUD request at 1134 State Street was withdrawn. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2024 millage rate at 4.104 mills (unanimous)
• Approved changes to employee medical benefit coverage (unanimous)
• Awarded LMIG/LRA street paving bid to Summit Construction for up to $441,110.57 (unanimous)
• Approved new Courtware/JusticeONE license at $10 per case (unanimous)
• Approved three-year Sangoma Cloud phone service agreement (unanimous)
• Rezoned 86 acres at White Hill School Road / Hwy 441 to R-2 with 11 conditions (unanimous)
• Denied rezoning of 1.5 acres at 177 Bolton Drive from C-1 to R-4 (unanimous)
• Approved re-adoption of UDC with amendments, ending zoning moratorium (unanimous)

C:Work Session

The City Council will consider multiple approvals including annexation and rezoning of a 2.01-acre parcel on US Highway 441S for commercial retail, a conditional use for a self-storage facility on the same highway, and a rezoning and variance for a car wash/auto repair at 1269 S. Elm St. They will also vote on beer and wine license applications, a new text-message alert system with annual costs, and other routine items.

• Annexation (PAX24-0001) and rezoning (PR24-0002) of 2.01 acres at US Highway 441S, Parcel 020 004A1 from General Industrial to General Commercial for commercial retail
• Conditional Use (PC24-0001) for self-storage on 3.089 acres at US Highway 441S, Parcel 020 004E in C-2 district with Highway Corridor Overlay
• Rezoning (PR24-0001) and Variance (PV24-0001) at 1269 S. Elm St. from Office/Commercial Residential to General Commercial for car wash, auto repair, and auto sales
• Beer and wine license applications: Meera 9896 LLC at 2034 North Broad St. and AAA Mart & Fuel Inc at 614 South Broad St.
• TextMyGov Alert Notification System: first-year cost $6,000, then $5,000 annually for a 2-year term

The City Council held a work session and referred all 13 agenda items, including budget amendments, liquor licenses, and zoning requests, to a future meeting on April 15, 2024.

• Referred Boys and Girls Club 5K event to April 15
• Referred MEAG signatory certificate update to April 15
• Referred Municipal Gas Authority voting delegate update to April 15
• Referred Meera 9896 LLC beer and wine application to April 15
• Referred AAA Mart & Fuel Inc beer and wine license update to April 15
• Referred FY24 Budget Amendments to April 15
• Referred TextMyGov alert system approval to April 15
• Referred Wellhead Protection Ordinance to April 15

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will vote on a 13-item action agenda including annexation and rezoning of land on US Highway 441S for commercial retail, a conditional use permit for a self-storage facility on the same highway, and a rezoning and variance for a car wash/auto repair at 1269 Elm St. Other items include a new beer and wine license at 2034 North Broad Street, FY24 budget amendments, a wellhead protection ordinance, and a $6,000 first-year text alert system. The meeting also features citizen delegations on a ditch project, police activity, and speeding.

• Annexation of 2.01 acres (Parcel 020 004A1) on US 441S for commercial retail (PAX24-0001) with companion rezoning to C-2 (PR24-0002)
• Conditional use for 3.089-acre self-storage facility on US 441S (PC24-0001)
• Rezoning of 1.14 acres at 1269 Elm St. to C-2 for car wash/auto repair/auto sales (PR24-0001) with variance to reduce minimum acreage (PV24-0001)
• Beer and wine license application for Meera 9896 LLC at 2034 North Broad Street
• First-year cost of $6,000 for TextMyGov alert notification system with $5,000 annual renewal

City Council approved the annexation and rezoning of 2.01 acres on US Highway 441S for commercial retail use. The council denied a conditional use request for a self-storage facility on 3.089 acres on US Highway 441S. Other approved actions included budget amendments and beer and wine licenses.

• Approved annexation of +/-2.01 acres at US Highway 441S (Unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of +/-2.01 acres at US Highway 441S to C-2 General Commercial (Unanimous)
• Denied conditional use for self-storage facility on +/-3.089 acres at US Highway 441S (4-2)
• Approved FY24 Budget Amendments (Unanimous)
• Approved Wellhead Protection Ordinance (Unanimous)
• Approved beer and wine application for Meera 9896 LLC at 2034 North Broad Street (Unanimous)
• Approved beer and wine licenses for AAA Mart & Fuel Inc at 614 South Broad Street (Unanimous)
• Tabled TextMyGov Alert Notification System (Unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning of approximately 86 acres at White Hill School Road and Highway 441 from R-1 (low-density residential) to R-2 (medium-density residential), along with three variance requests to reduce lane width, waive tree replacement requirements, and waive a tree survey. The commission will also discuss self-storage units.

• Rezoning PR24-0003: 86 acres at White Hill School Road/Highway 441 from R-1 to R-2
• Variance PV24-0002: reduce collector street lane width from 36 ft to 24 ft on same property
• Variance PV24-0002: waive tree replacement for removal of trees over 6 inches on same property
• Variance PV24-0002: waive tree survey requirement on same property
• Discussion on self-storage units (commission discussion item)

The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding a request to rezone approximately 86 acres from R-1 to R-2 to increase potential home density from 87 to 126 lots. Residents expressed opposition citing concerns over school overcrowding, traffic on Highway 441, and environmental impacts. The provided minutes end before a final vote or decision was recorded on the rezoning.

• Approved January 22, 2024 minutes as amended (Unanimous)
• Approved March 25, 2024 minutes (Unanimous)

C:Work Session

The council will consider Recommendation PR 24-0003 to rezone about 86 acres at White Hill School Road from low‑density to medium‑density residential, along with three related variance requests (PV24‑0002) covering tree‑save requirements, tree survey, and lane‑width reductions. Additional items include reappointing Ann Rhoads to the Jackson County Library Board, discussing a city social‑media policy and hiring a consulting firm, renewing the Classic Main Street MOU, and approving several event‑related street closures. The council will also review a $152,472 street‑resurfacing project, a $579,415 award for park‑lighting, an ESG lead‑and‑copper inventory contract, and an amendment to the Inframark contract.

• Rezoning of ~86 acres at White Hill School Road from R‑1 to R‑2 (PR 24‑0003)
• Variance PV24‑0002 to waive tree‑save requirements for the same parcel
• Approval of $152,472 for 1.0661 miles of street resurfacing using Local Road Assistance funds
• Award of $579,415 to Cory Clark Electric for American Veterans Memorial Park field lights (SPLOST funded)
• Amendment 3 to Inframark, LLC contract for ESG Operations updating operation, chemical, and repair costs

The City Council referred a rezoning request for 86 acres on White Hill School Road to a future meeting. The council also referred a request to reappoint a library board member, a social media policy update, a consultant contract, a Main Street MOU, street parking closures, street resurfacing, a lead and copper program, and a contract amendment to future meetings.

• Referred rezoning of 86 acres to White Hill School Road (PR24-0003)
• Withdrawn variance requests for tree requirements (PV24-0002)
• Withdrawn variance requests for tree survey plans (PV24-0002)
• Withdrawn variance request for lane width modification (PV24-0002)
• Referred reappointment of Ann Rhoads to Jackson County Library Board
• Referred update of Social Media Policy
• Referred approval of Candid Honor Consultant contract
• Referred renewal of Classic Main Street MOU with DCA

C:Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider a recommendation to rezone approximately 86 acres at White Hill School Road and Highway 441 from low-density to medium-density residential. Other action items include extending a street closure for parking lot work, approving a $579,415 bid for field lights at American Veterans Memorial Park, and discussing a social media policy. The meeting also includes public comment and approval of prior minutes.

• Rezoning PR24-0003: ~86 acres at White Hill School Road/Highway 441 from R-1 to R-2
• Bid award for American Veterans Memorial Park field lights: $579,415 to Cory Clark Electric
• Extension of Willard Street closure to June 3, 2024, for parking lot renovation
• Social media policy discussion and consulting contract with Hunter Spear
• Approval of 1.0661 miles of street resurfacing using $152,472 in LRA funds

The City Council approved a $152,472 street resurfacing project, a new social media policy, and parking closures for summer concerts. They also approved a contract for a social media consultant and reappointed a library board member. A rezoning request and a bid for park field lights were tabled.

• Approved $152,472 street resurfacing (6 streets, 1.0661 miles) [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved social media policy for staff [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved contract with Candid Honor Consultant for social media [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved renewal of Classic Main Street MOU with DCA [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved Cherry Street parking closures for June 7 and July 19 concerts [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved Summer in the City street closures for June 28 [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved ESG Lead and Copper Program Management agreement [UNANIMOUS]
• Approved Inframark ESG Operations Amendment 3 [UNANIMOUS]

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will hold a regular meeting on June 17, 2024, to consider a rezoning request for approximately 86 acres at White Hill School Road and Highway 441, a bid award for park field lights, a 15-year AMI service agreement, and the FY 2024-2025 budget resolution. Public hearings are scheduled on the rezoning and related matters.

• Rezoning PR 24-0003: ~86 acres at White Hill School Rd & Hwy 441 from R-1 to R-2 (medium density)
• Bid award for American Veterans Memorial Park field lights: $579,415 to Cory Clark Electric (SPLOST-funded)
• 15-year SaaS agreement with Sensus USA for residential Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
• Closure of Homer, High, Line, and View Streets on June 22-23 for fire training with controlled burn
• Approval of FY 2024-2025 budget resolution

The City Council denied a request to rezone 86 acres at White Hill School Road from R-1 to R-2, after several residents spoke against the project. A motion to deny the rezoning failed 2-4, but the result was recorded as denied, and the property remains R-1. The council also approved bids for park lights, an AMI service agreement, street closures for fire training, and the FY 2024-2025 budget.

• Denied rezoning of 86 acres at White Hill School Road from R-1 to R-2 (2-4)
• Approved $579,415 bid to Cory Clark Electric for American Veterans Memorial Park field lights (unanimous)
• Approved 15-year SaaS agreement with Sensus USA Inc. for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (unanimous)
• Approved closure of Homer, High, Line, and View Streets for fire training controlled burn (unanimous)
• Approved closure and abandonment of Church Street effective June 23, 2024 (5-1)
• Approved T-SPLOST Intergovernmental Agreement with Jackson County (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance standardizing minute-keeping for all city boards and committees (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2024-2025 budget resolution (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider a request to annex and rezone approximately 2.01 acres at US Highway 441S from General Industrial to General Commercial. The commission will also discuss potential revisions to the self-storage facility ordinance and the tree save ordinance. An update on prior city council actions will note that a previous 86-acre rezoning on White Hill School Road was denied.

• Annexation request (PAX24-0001) for 2.01 acres at US Highway 441S, Map Parcel 020 004A1, applicant Rick Steele and owner Helen Marie Payne
• Rezoning request (PR24-0002) for same parcel from GI (General Industrial, Jackson County) to C-2 (General Commercial)
• Status report discussion on a self-storage facility ordinance and a revision to the Tree Save ordinance
• Update on city council actions: prior rezoning PR 24-0003 (86 acres on White Hill School Road) was denied

The Commerce Planning Commission unanimously approved the annexation of 2.01 acres on US Highway 441S into the city and rezoned the property from Jackson County GI (General Industrial) to City C-2 (General Commercial). Commissioners also approved minutes from April and May 2024 after amendments. Discussion on a proposed self-storage ordinance and tree save revisions was continued for further staff review.

• Approved April (revised) and May 2024 minutes unanimously
• Approved annexation of 2.01 acres at US Highway 441S (PAX24-0001) unanimously
• Approved rezoning of same parcel from GI (Jackson County) to C-2 (General Commercial) (PR24-0002) unanimously
• Discussed but took no vote on self-storage facility ordinance and tree save ordinance revisions

C:Work Session

The Commerce City Council will review and vote on several contract awards, including a $400,389.24 wastewater treatment upgrade and well drilling contracts that maintain local water infrastructure. The council will also consider a 36-month water sale agreement with Jackson County, a $40-per-day inmate housing fee, and a FLOCK camera maintenance permit with GDOT. Additionally, the council will address a proposed November ballot question to adjust homestead exemption income and age limits, approve an annexation and rezoning for a 2.01-acre parcel on US Highway 441S, and review permits for two community events that will temporarily close Oak, Little, Pine Streets and the State Street parking lot.

• Bid award to WL Griffin Company, LLC for $400,389.24 for wastewater treatment equipment
• 36-month water sale agreement with Jackson County Water and Sewer Authority (2024-2027)
• Proposed November ballot question to adjust age and income limits for the Commerce Homestead Exemption
• Annexation and rezoning from General Industrial to General Commercial for 2.01 acres on US Highway 441S
• Liquor license request for Big Eagle Axe Throwing at 1656 South Broad Street

The City Council referred 12 items to the next meeting, including the award of water well drilling and utility pole replacement contracts, a water purchase agreement with Jackson County, and a proposed homestead exemption ballot question.

• Referred award of $20,240 well drilling contract to Peachstate Well Drilling
• Referred $400,389.24 WPCP diffuser contract award to WL Griffin Company
• Referred $45,516.80 utility pole replacement contract award to Deep South Utility Services
• Referred renewal of Jackson County water purchase agreement (36 months, $3.25-$5.00 per 1,000 gallons)
• Referred placement of HB 1460 homestead exemption question on November 5, 2024 ballot
• Referred agreement for maintenance of FLOCK cameras with Georgia DOT
• Referred renewal of Jackson County inmate housing agreement ($40.00 per day)
• Referred beer and wine license application for Big Eagle Axe Throwing

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will consider approving several bids for well drilling, sewer repairs, and utility pole replacement, as well as agreements for inmate housing, water sales, and FLOCK camera maintenance. They will also deliberate on rezoning and annexation of a 2-acre parcel for commercial use, and a ballot question to expand the homestead exemption for certain residents.

• Bid award for test well drilling at $20,240 per well (up to 6 wells)
• Bid award for WPCP diffuser/curtain replacement at $400,389.24
• Consider placing homestead exemption expansion on Nov. 2024 ballot
• Rezoning of 2.01 acres from GI to C-2 at US Highway 441S
• Agreement to house inmates at $40 per day for 12 months

The City Council approved multiple contracts for water, utility, and road projects, unanimously voted to place a homestead exemption question on the November 5 ballot, and approved the annexation and rezoning of a 2.01-acre property on US Highway 441S.

• Approved $400,389.24 contract for Northside WPCP Diffuser (unanimous)
• Approved $45,516.80 contract for 15 utility pole replacements (unanimous)
• Approved $3.25 per 1,000 gallons water rate for 3,000,000 gallons monthly (unanimous)
• Approved placing HB 1460 homestead exemption question on Nov 5 ballot (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 2.01-acre property to city limits (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 2.01-acre property to C-2 (unanimous)
• Approved $20,240 per well bid for test well drilling (unanimous)
• Approved closing Little, Oak, and Pine Streets for National Night Out (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will review city council actions, including the rezoning of approximately 86 acres at White Hill School Road from low‑density to medium‑density residential. It will also consider annexation and rezoning requests for a 2.01‑acre parcel on US Highway 441 South, a 14.951‑acre asphalt manufacturing plant on Billy Booth Road, and a 23.4‑acre mixed‑use PUD at 1134 State Street. Additionally, staff will provide updates on the Tree Save ordinance and the Self‑Storage Facility ordinance.

• PR 24-0003 – Rezoning ~86 acres at White Hill School Road (intersection with Highway 441) from R‑1 to R‑2 residential
• Annexation and rezoning to C2 – ~2.01 acres on US Highway 441 South (Map/Parcel 020 004A1) for commercial retail
• PAX24-0003 – Annexation ~14.951 acres on Billy Booth Road at State Route 98 (Maysville Road) for an asphalt manufacturing plant
• PR24-0008 – Rezoning ~14.951 acres on Billy Booth Road to M‑2 Heavy Manufacturing District
• PR24-0007 – Rezoning ~23.4 acres at 1134 State Street to a Planned Unit Development (mixed commercial, town homes, single‑family homes)

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the annexation, rezoning, and conditional use for an asphalt manufacturing plant on Billy Booth Road. The commission also approved the minutes from the June 24, 2024 meeting as amended.

• Approved annexation of 14.951 acres on Billy Booth Road (Unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 14.951 acres from A-2 to M-2 for asphalt plant (Unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for asphalt plant to operate up to 24 hours a day (Unanimous)
• Approved June 24, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (Unanimous)

C:Work Session

The Commerce City Council will consider a bid award for reconstructing tennis courts and building new pickleball courts at American Veterans Park for $200,000, and a $299,813 contract to replace 1,500 residential water meters. Three related items propose annexing about 15 acres on Billy Booth Road at State Route 98 and rezoning it for a 24-hour asphalt manufacturing plant. Also up for discussion are alcohol license applications, Fall Fest street closures, and a special event beer garden.

• Bid award of $200,000 to Signature Tennis Courts for tennis/pickleball courts at American Veterans Park
• Bid award of $299,813 to Vanguard Utility Service for residential water meter replacement and lead/copper survey
• Annexation and rezoning of ~14.951 acres on Billy Booth Road to M-2 Heavy Manufacturing for an asphalt plant
• Conditional use request to operate the asphalt plant up to 24 hours a day
• Alcohol license application (beer, wine, liquor) for Friends Restaurant at 1671 South Broad Street

The City Council held a work session where all ten items under new business were referred to the August 19, 2024, meeting. No substantive decisions were made on the proposed contracts, rezoning requests, or event permits. The session included discussions on a potential downtown entertainment district and a moratorium on convenience stores.

• Referred $200,000 bid for pickleball and tennis courts to 8/19/2024
• Referred $299,813 AMI Meter Replacement bid to 8/19/2024
• Referred Iron Grid Networking LLC IT services agreement to 8/19/2024
• Referred $500 monthly Granicus PEAK software contract to 8/19/2024
• Referred 14.951-acre annexation for asphalt plant to 8/19/2024
• Referred rezoning of 14.951 acres to Heavy Manufacturing District to 8/19/2024
• Referred conditional use request for asphalt plant to 8/19/2024
• Referred alcohol license application for Friends Restaurant to 8/19/2024

C:Work Session

The City Council will hold a work session on October 7, 2024, to consider several items including a rezoning request for 21.5 acres at 0 Duncan Circle from R-1 (low-density) to R-2 (medium-density) single-family residential. They will also vote on a MEAG Power sale agreement to sell excess power to Sandersville, participation in the HEAT natural gas utility assistance program, and multiple street closures for community events. Discussion topics include Washington Street traffic issues and a concept design for Chaney Park Pavilion.

• Rezoning PR24-0009: 21.5 acres at 0 Duncan Circle (Map/Parcel C06 004) from R-1 to R-2 (medium-density) district
• MEAG Power Sale Agreement: sale of 2.5 MW (approx. 0.4% of Project 1) excess power to City of Sandersville at $50/MWh for 2025
• Participation in HEAT program: assistance for natural gas utility bills
• Street closures: Minish Dr. (Nov. 2, band battle), portions of downtown (Nov. 26, tree lighting), multiple roads (Nov. 30, Christmas parade)
• Reappointment of Cooper Huff and Rob Brown to Recreation Board for 36 months

The City Council did not vote on any items. They referred a power sale agreement with Sandersville and several street closure requests for upcoming events to the next regular meeting. A rezoning request was withdrawn.

• Rezoning at 0 Duncan Circle withdrawn
• MEAG Power sale agreement referred to 10/21/2024
• HEAT program participation referred to 10/21/2024
• Reappointment of Cooper Huff and Rob Brown referred to 10/21/2024
• Street closure for Commerce High School Band Battle referred to 10/21/2024
• Street closures for Christmas Tree Lighting referred to 10/21/2024
• Street closures for Christmas Parade referred to 10/21/2024
• Executive Session held for personnel discussion

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will vote on a 2.9% annual electric rate increase from 2025 to 2030, based on an ECG rate study. Other action items include approving an intergovernmental agreement for water line improvements on Hwy 98, deeding property along Church Street, and awarding a downtown master plan contract for up to $96,850. The council will also hold public hearings on annexation and rezoning of approximately 121 acres for a distribution center with truck terminals and warehouse/storage.

• 2.9% annual electric utility rate increase 2025-2030
• Intergovernmental agreement for water line improvements on Hwy 98
• Deeding property along abandoned Church Street to adjacent owners
• Downtown Master Plan contract award to Robert & Company for up to $96,850
• Annexation and rezoning of ~121 acres for a distribution center (Taylor & Mathis)

The City Council approved a 2.9% annual increase to electric utility rates, annexed 91.35 acres of land, and rezoned the property to Light Industrial District. The council also approved a Downtown Master Plan contract and deeds for Church Street property owners.

• Approved 2.9% annual increase to Electric Utility Rates (unanimous)
• Approved Intergovernmental Agreement for Water Line Improvements with Madison County (unanimous)
• Approved Deeding property to owners along Church Street (unanimous)
• Approved Bid award for Downtown Master Plan Project to Robert & Company ($96,850) (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Mural Project with Keep Jackson Beautiful (5-0)
• Approved Annexation of 91.35 acres to the city (unanimous)
• Approved Rezoning of 121.373 acres to Light Industrial District (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use for Distribution Center with Truck Terminals (unanimous)

C:Work Session

The City Council will discuss and consider approval of a $12 million GEFA loan for a new wastewater treatment plant, a 2025 LMIG grant to resurface 12 streets, and an increase in municipal court processing fees. The agenda also includes multiple rezoning, annexation, and conditional use requests, as well as appointments to the Housing Authority and a new beer and wine license application.

• Consider approval of $12 million GEFA Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan for new Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Consider approval of 2025 LMIG grant to resurface +/-2.66 miles of 12 streets, including Madison St., Hospital Rd, Northview Dr., and others
• Consider approval to increase Municipal Court processing fee from 10% to 20% of fine amount
• Consider rezoning and conditional use permit for a convenience store/grocery at 652 Hospital Road
• Consider approval of retail beer and wine sales at 2201 North Elm Street (Celebration)

The City Council referred 17 items, including road resurfacing, a wastewater plant loan, and zoning changes, to a future work session on January 21, 2025. No items were decided.

• Referred 2025 LMIG road resurfacing project to next meeting
• Referred Municipal Court fee increase to next meeting
• Referred $12M GEFA loan for wastewater plant to next meeting
• Referred Housing Authority appointments to next meeting
• Referred Fiber Network voting delegate appointment to next meeting
• Referred retail beer and wine sales permit to next meeting
• Referred Civic Center pricing to next meeting
• Referred Right of Way encroachment permits to next meeting

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will vote on three new business items: a variance request for Battery Park Townhomes to reduce front and rear setbacks, a variance for the location of a gas station/fast food restaurant at 3243 Maysville Road, and preliminary plat approval for Whitemill Village. The commission will also approve minutes from the March 27 regular meeting.

• Consider approval of variance to reduce front setbacks to 20 ft and rear to 15 ft for Battery Park Townhomes on Old Harden Orchard Road (8.57 acres, R-6 zoning)
• Consider approval of variance for location of a gas station/fast food restaurant at 3243 Maysville Road
• Consider approval of preliminary plat for Whitemill Village
• Approval of minutes from the March 27, 2023 regular meeting

The Planning Commission unanimously denied a variance request for Battery Park Townhomes to reduce setbacks. The commission also approved a variance for a gas station and fast food restaurant at 3243 Maysville Road. A preliminary plat for Whitemill Village was tabled.

• Denied Battery Park Townhomes variance (5-0)
• Approved gas station variance at 3243 Maysville Road (5-0)
• Tabled Whitemill Village preliminary plat (5-0)
• Accepted previous meeting minutes (5-0)

C:Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider a 90-day moratorium on rezoning, special use permit, and variance applications. Action items include bid awards for pickleball/tennis courts ($200,000) and water meter replacements ($299,813). A major item is annexation and rezoning of 14.951 acres at Billy Booth Road for an asphalt manufacturing plant operating up to 24 hours a day.

• 90-day moratorium on rezoning, special use permit, and variance applications
• Bid award for reconstructing 2 tennis courts and constructing 6 pickleball courts at American Veterans Park for $200,000
• Bid award for replacing 1,500 residential water meters for $299,813
• Annexation, rezoning, and conditional use for asphalt plant at Billy Booth Road/State Route 98
• Alcohol license application for beer, wine, and liquor at 1671 South Broad Street (Friends Restaurant)

The council unanimously approved a 90-day moratorium on rezoning, special use permit, and variance applications. They also approved the annexation, rezoning to C-2, and a conditional use for a 24-hour asphalt manufacturing plant on 14.951 acres at Billy Booth Road and State Route 98. Other actions included awarding contracts for pickleball/tennis courts and water meter replacements, and approving an alcohol license and street closures for Fall Fest.

• Approved 90-day moratorium on rezoning, special use, and variance applications (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 14.951 acres for asphalt plant (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of parcels from A-2 to C-2 for asphalt plant (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for 24-hour asphalt plant operation (unanimous)
• Approved $200,000 contract to Signature Tennis Courts for pickleball/tennis courts (unanimous)
• Approved $299,813 contract to Vanguard Utility Service for 1,500 water meter replacements (unanimous)
• Approved alcohol license for consumption on premise at Friends Restaurant (unanimous)
• Approved Fall Fest street closures and special event beer garden (unanimous)

C:Work Session

The City Council held a work session where several items were presented for consideration. No substantive decisions or approvals were made during this session, as all discussed items were referred to the next scheduled meeting on September 16, 2024.

• Referred rezoning request for White Hill School Road (PR 24-0003) to Sept. 16
• Referred employee medical benefit coverage changes to Sept. 16
• Referred street paving bid award for Summit Construction and Development LLC to Sept. 16
• Referred Courtware/JusticeONE license agreement to Sept. 16
• Referred Sangoma Cloud internet agreement to Sept. 16
• Referred Public Facility Authority appointment of Rick Massey to Sept. 16
• Referred surplus items sale via Gov.com to Sept. 16
• Referred UDC re-adoption and zoning moratorium termination to Sept. 16

C:Public Facility Authority

The Public Facility Authority will hear a presentation from Raymond James regarding a project for Commerce City Schools. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and is otherwise procedural.

• Presentation from Raymond James (William Camp, Managing Director) on Commerce City Schools project

C:Work Session

The Commerce City Council meeting will discuss a public hearing on House Bill 581 and consider several approvals. Old business includes a conditional use permit for a convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road. New business items include a conditional use permit for a convenience store with gas pumps and three suites at 738 Homer Road, a resolution to opt out of the statewide floating homestead exemption, a rental agreement for baseball fields, and street closures for a Grand Re‑Opening event.

• Conditional use permit for a convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road
• Conditional use permit for a convenience store with gas pumps and 3 suites at 738 Homer Road (≈2.428 acres)
• Resolution to opt out of Statewide Floating Homestead Exemption (House Bill 581)
• AVMP Travel Organization Rental Agreement to rent baseball fields
• Street closure on State Street and Central Avenue on March 11, 2025 for Grand Re‑Opening of the Commerce Administrative Complex

The City Council did not vote on any items. Instead, it referred six items, including two conditional use permits and a resolution to opt out of a state tax exemption, to the Planning Commission for further consideration.

• Referred conditional use for convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road to Planning Commission
• Referred conditional use for convenience store with gas pumps at 738 Homer Road to Planning Commission
• Referred resolution to opt out of House Bill 581 to Planning Commission
• Referred travel organization rental agreement for baseball fields to Planning Commission
• Referred Jackson County housing and booking contract amendment to Planning Commission
• Referred street closure and city office closure for March 11 event to Planning Commission

C:Regular Meeting

The City Council will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution to opt out of the statewide floating homestead exemption under House Bill 581. They will also vote on two conditional use permits for convenience stores at 652 Hospital Road (without fuel) and 738 Homer Road (with gas pumps). Additional items include approval of minutes, a travel organization rental agreement for baseball fields, and street closures for the grand reopening of the Commerce Administrative Complex on March 11, 2025.

• Public hearing and resolution to opt out of House Bill 581 statewide floating homestead exemption
• Conditional use permit for convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road
• Conditional use permit for convenience store with gas pumps and 3 suites at 738 Homer Road
• Approval of AVMP Travel Organization rental agreement for baseball fields
• Street closure of State Street and Central Avenue on March 11, 2025 for grand reopening event

The City Council approved a conditional use permit for a convenience store without fuel pumps and a separate permit for a convenience store with gas pumps. The council also approved a resolution to opt out of a statewide homestead exemption and authorized street closures and office closures for the Grand Re-opening of the Commerce Administrative Complex.

• Approved conditional use permit for convenience store without fuel pumps at 652 Hospital Road (6-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for convenience store with gas pumps at 738 Homer Road (6-0)
• Approved resolution to opt out of Statewide Floating Homestead Exemption House Bill 581 (6-0)
• Approved AVMP Travel Organization Rental Agreement for baseball fields (6-0)
• Approved Jackson County Housing and Booking Contract amendment for Sheriff Kevin McCook (6-0)
• Approved street closure for State Street and Central Avenue on March 11, 2025 (6-0)
• Approved closure of City Hall and Planning and Development offices on March 11, 2025 (6-0)
• Accepted minutes from previous meetings (6-0)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on March 28, 2022. They will consider approval of minutes from February 28, 2022. Three new business items include two annexation and rezoning requests and one variance request. The commission may vote on these items.

• Consider approval of annexation and rezoning of 3.63 acres on Wilson Garage Road, Map 034 Parcel 033G, from A-1 County to R-2 City
• Consider approval of annexation and rezoning of 1.21 acres at 277 Deli a Dr, Map 022A Parcel 005, from A-2 County to R-1 City
• Consider approval of variance of setbacks to 10 ft front for 0.44 acres at 96 Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr, Map C07 Parcel 059

The Planning Commission approved the annexation and rezoning of two properties and granted a setback variance for a church remodel. The commission also accepted the meeting minutes from February 28, 2022.

• Approved annexation and R-1 zoning for Wilson Garage Road, Map 034 Parcel 033G (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved annexation and R-1 zoning for 277 Delia Dr, 022A 005 (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved setback variance from 25 feet to 10 feet for 96 Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved February 28, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission is considering four items at its April 25, 2022 meeting: three rezoning requests and one variance for a sign. The largest is a 9.048-acre rezoning from AR to M-2 on Hardman Orchard Road as part of the Dakota Commerce industrial development. Also on the agenda are a rezoning of 747 South Elm Street from M-1 to OCR and a rezoning of 391 Hill Street from OCR to R-2, plus a variance for an internally lit sign at 3219 Maysville Road.

• Rezoning 9.048 acres on Hardman Orchard Road from AR to M-2, part of Dakota Commerce development
• Rezoning 0.49 acres at 747 South Elm Street from M-1 to OCR
• Rezoning 0.26 acres at 391 Hill Street from OCR to R-2
• Variance request for an internally lit sign at 3219 Maysville Road

The Planning Commission approved three rezoning requests and denied an application for an internally lit sign. The commission also approved the minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approved rezoning Hardman Orchard Road (9.048 acres) to M-2 with condition of fully shielded lighting (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 747 South Elm Street (0.49 acres) from M-1 to OCR (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 391 Hill Street (0.26 acres) from OCR to R-2 (unanimous)
• Denied variance for internally lit sign at 3219 Maysville Road (3-1)
• Approved minutes from April 25, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider five annexation, rezoning, and variance requests at its May 23, 2022 meeting, including a major 11.36-acre industrial rezoning as part of the 'Dakota Commerce' development. Commissioners will also vote on an update to the Overlay Sign Ordinance and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Annexation and rezoning of 11.36 acres at 1858 Yarbrough Ridgeway Rd from county A2 to city M-2 (industrial) with condition of shielded lighting
• Annexation and rezoning of 1.74 acres at 679 Waterworks Rd from county A2 to city R-1 (residential)
• Variance to reduce front setback from 25 feet to 15 feet at 2371 Remington Dr
• Variance for accessory dwelling unit at 117 Willford St (increase size by 56 feet), tabled from previous meeting
• Consideration of Overlay Sign Ordinance update

The Commerce Planning Commission approved two annexations, four variances, and an overlay sign ordinance update. The annexation of 1858 Yarbrough Rd was approved unanimously with a condition for fully shielded lighting, and the annexation of 679 Waterworks Rd was approved unanimously. Variances for 2371 Remington Dr (3‑2), 117 Willford St (4‑1), and 0 & 77 Westwood Dr (unanimous) were also approved, along with the ordinance update (unanimous).

• Approved annexation of 1858 Yarbrough Rd, 11.36 ac, with shielded lighting condition (unanimous)
• Approved annexation of 679 Waterworks Rd, 1.74 ac (unanimous)
• Approved variance to reduce front setbacks at 2371 Remington Dr (3‑2) with retaining‑wall condition
• Approved accessory dwelling unit variance at 117 Willford St, 1056 sq ft (4‑1)
• Approved accessory structure variance at 0 & 77 Westwood Dr, condition to combine and record lots (unanimous)
• Approved Overlay Sign Ordinance Update (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on four items, including a rezoning and variance request for 1134 State Street to allow a self-storage facility with outdoor boat/RV storage. Staff recommends denial of that request and also recommends denial of a variance for an accessory building at 278 Cedar Drive. The commission will also consider a zoning modification for 135 RV sites and 10 cabins at 5473 Mt. Olive Road, and a rezoning of 206 Lords Mill Road from AF to AR.

• Variance for accessory building on standalone lot at 278 Cedar Drive (0.39 acres, R-2) – staff recommends denial
• Rezoning from C-2 to M-1 and variance for outdoor storage at 1134 State Street (6.6 acres) – staff recommends denial
• Zoning modification for 5473 Mt. Olive Road: approve 135 RV sites, 10 cabins, and remove conditions
• Rezoning for 206 Lords Mill Road (21.99 acres) from AF to AR

The commission approved a variance for 278 Cedar Drive with conditions that the building be used only for non‑commercial storage and not be expanded. It denied the rezoning and variance request for 1134 State St by a 4‑to‑1 vote. The request to modify zoning for 5473 Mt. Olive Rd was tabled unanimously. The rezoning of 206 Lords Mill Road was approved unanimously with a condition to record the plat division before permitting.

• Approved variance for 278 Cedar Drive (unanimous)
• Denied rezoning and variance for 1134 State St (4‑1)
• Tabled zoning modification for 5473 Mt. Olive Rd (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning for 206 Lords Mill Rd (unanimous)

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will hold discussions on self-storage facility regulations and a tree preservation plan, with no votes scheduled. The meeting also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and an update on city council actions (no reports). This is a deliberative session rather than a decision-making meeting.

• Discussion of Self Storage Facilities
• Discussion of Tree Save Plan
• Approval of minutes from January 22 and March 25, 2024 meetings

C:Work Session

At this work session, the Commerce City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY2025 budget and consider its approval. The council will also vote on a 15-year software service agreement with Sensus USA for an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system for residential customers, with first-year savings of $136,700. Other items include a street closure for fire training with a controlled burn, approval of an intergovernmental agreement with Jackson County for T-SPLOST funding, and an ordinance standardizing how meeting minutes are kept and recorded.

• Public hearing and consideration of the FY2025 budget
• 15-year SaaS agreement with Sensus USA for AMI system (first-year savings $136,700)
• Closure of Homer, High, Line, and View streets June 22-23 for arson investigation training and controlled burn of a DDA-owned house at 76 High Street
• Approval of T-SPLOST intergovernmental agreement with Jackson County (estimated $14.8M revenue over 6 years for Commerce)
• Ordinance to establish procedures for keeping and recording minutes for all city boards, committees, and council

The June 3, 2024 work session included a public hearing on the FY25 budget and a presentation from the Gainesville Housing Authority, but no final decisions were made. All five new business items were referred to the June 17 regular meeting without a vote.

• Closed public hearing on FY2024-2025 budget (unanimous)
• Referred 15-year AMI service agreement with Sensus USA to next meeting
• Referred closure of Homer, High, Line, View Streets for fire training to next meeting
• Referred status discussion on Church Street closure/abandonment to next meeting
• Referred T-SPLOST intergovernmental agreement with Jackson County to next meeting
• Referred ordinance on keeping and recording of minutes to next meeting

C:Public Hearing

The City of Commerce holds a public hearing to introduce the Comprehensive Plan. City Manager Matthew Hailey will present the plan overview, followed by a presentation from the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission. Public comments will be accepted before the hearing adjourns.

• Comprehensive Plan introduction by City Manager Matthew Hailey
• Presentation by Northeast Georgia Regional Commission
• Public comment period on the Comprehensive Plan

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider the annexation and rezoning of 43.309 acres on Haggard Road from county A-2 to city M-1 (industrial) with a condition on outdoor lighting. Also on the agenda is a variance request for a dog kennel at 223 Highland Estates and a status report on a home renovation at 60 Pine Avenue. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes.

• Consider annexation and rezoning of 43.309 acres on Haggard Road (Map 019 Parcels 002 and 002C) from A-2 to M-1, with a condition for fully shielded outdoor lighting
• Consider variance for placement of a dog kennel at 223 Highland Estates (0.53 acres, Map C21A Parcel 056)
• Status report on CHIP home renovation at 60 Pine Avenue (0.29 acres, Map C07 Parcel 014) after a survey error was discovered
• Approval of planning commission minutes from previous meeting

C:Public Facility Authority

The Commerce Public Facility Authority will consider approving a survey to split 402 MLK Drive into two tracts and then leasing Tract 2 to New Faith Methodist Church for $315/month for an initial two-year term, converting to month-to-month. The board also plans to appoint annual officers, including Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and a citizen member. A public discussion on facility matters is also scheduled.

• Lease of Tract 2 at 402 MLK Jr. Drive to New Faith Methodist Church for $315/month, 2-year initial term
• Survey to split property at 402 MLK Drive into two tracts, including the building
• Annual appointment of officers: Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, and resident member
• Recommendation to appoint Christy Case as PFA Treasurer
• Tenant may sublease to church members for events, indemnifying the city

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will review several land‑use applications, including an annexation of about 2.01 acres on US Highway 441S for commercial retail (PAX24-0001) and a companion rezoning of the same parcel to C‑2 (PR24-0002). It will also consider a conditional‑use request for a self‑storage facility on roughly 3.09 acres of the highway corridor (PC24-0001) and a rezoning and variance for a car‑wash/auto‑repair site at 1269 Elm St. (PR24-0001, PV24-0001). A Wellhead Protection Ordinance is also on the agenda.

• Annexation of ~2.01 acres on US Highway 441S (Parcel 020 004A1) for commercial retail – PAX24-0001
• Rezoning of the same US Highway 441S parcel to C‑2 General Commercial – PR24-0002
• Conditional use of ~3.089 acres on US Highway 441S for self‑storage facility – PC24-0001
• Rezoning of 1269 Elm St. (~1.14 acres) to C‑2 for car wash, auto repair, and auto sales – PR24-0001 and associated variance – PV24-0001
• Consideration of the Wellhead Protection Ordinance

The commission considered several annexation, rezoning, conditional‑use and variance requests, all of which were referred for later action. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the Wellhead Protection Ordinance, establishing a 25‑foot protection zone around new well heads. No opposition was recorded. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Wellhead Protection Ordinance (all in favor) – referred to next meeting
• Annexation request PAX24-0001 (≈2.01 acres US Hwy 441S) motion approved – referred
• Rezoning request PR24-0002 (≈2.01 acres US Hwy 441S) – referred
• Conditional‑use request PC24-0001 (self‑storage) motion to deny – referred
• Rezoning request PR24-0001 (1269 Elm St., car wash/auto repair) motion to deny – referred
• Variance request PV24-0001 (1269 S. Elm St.) motion to deny – referred

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for 1029 South Elm Street from OCR to C-1 for an event space, subject to conditions. They will also vote on adopting an updated Official Zoning Map and receive an update on a UDC amendment. Approval of the previous meeting minutes is also on the agenda.

• Consider rezoning 1029 S. Elm St. (parcel C12 047) from OCR to C-1 for event space, with 7 conditions including parking and screening.
• Consider adoption of updated Official Zoning Map with addendum detailing council decisions.
• Update on City Council actions regarding a Unified Development Code (UDC) amendment.
• Approval of December 11, 2023 Planning Commission minutes.
• Discussion from the Planning Commission.

The commission approved the December 2023 meeting minutes. It approved the rezoning of 1029 South Elm Street from OCR to C‑1 for use as an event space, attaching eight conditions. The adoption of the updated Official Zoning Map was referred for further action at the next meeting. All motions received unanimous support from those present.

• Approved December 2023 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved rezoning of 1029 South Elm to C‑1 with eight conditions (all in favor)
• Adoption of updated Official Zoning Map referred to next meeting (all in favor)

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will consider several items: annexation and rezoning of 687 Delia Drive to R-1 residential, rezoning of 562-600 Homer Road to C-2 for tractor/lawn equipment sales, modification of conditions for a residential development on Waterworks Road, a conditional use permit for an asphalt plant on Yarbrough Ridgeway Road, and a variance to tree save regulations on Old Harden Orchard Road.

• Annexation and rezoning of 1.023 acres at 687 Delia Drive to R-1 (PAX23-0004)
• Rezoning of 0.97 acres at 562-600 Homer Road from OCR to C-2 for tractor/lawn equipment sales (PR23-0013)
• Modification of zoning conditions for 8.61 acres at 155 Waterworks Road to allow 24 detached single-family homes (PR23-0014)
• Conditional use permit for asphalt plant on 7 acres at 1947 Yarbrough Ridgeway Road in M-2 district (PC23-004)
• Variance to tree save requirements on 33.67 acres at Old Harden Orchard Road (PV23-0008)

The Planning Commission approved the annexation of 687 Delia Drive and the rezoning of the property to R-01. The commission also approved the rezoning of 562, 580, and 600 Homer Road for a tractor and lawn equipment business. Three other items were withdrawn prior to the meeting.

• Approved annexation of 687 Delia Drive (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 687 Delia Drive to R-01 (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 562, 580, & 600 Homer Road (unanimous)
• Withdrawn PR23-0014 Modification of Zoning Conditions
• Withdrawn PC23-004 Conditional Use Permit for asphalt plant
• Withdrawn PV23-0008 Variance for tree protection
• Approved minutes from June 2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on tabling applications per new UDC

P:Regular Meeting

The Commerce Planning Commission will review a request to annex 121.501 acres at Steve Reynolds Industrial Parkway (parcels 020 002 and 020 008) and to rezone parcel 020 008 from C‑2 to M‑2. Staff recommends annexation but advises denying the rezoning, suggesting a C‑2 designation instead. The agenda also includes updates on a previously approved annexation and rezoning of 8155 Jefferson Road and approval of an amendment to Chapter 5 of the Zoning Ordinance. Several other rezoning proposals are slated for further discussion or have been tabled.

• Annexation of 121.501 acres on Steve Reynolds Industrial Parkway, parcels 020 002 and 020 008 (staff recommends annexation, deny rezoning to M‑2)
• Rezoning of parcel 020 008 from C‑2 to M‑2 (staff recommends C‑2)
• Annexation and rezoning of 0.81‑acre parcel at 8155 Jefferson Road to R‑1 (approved, pending city council vote)
• Amendment to Chapter 5 of the Zoning Ordinance on appeals process (approved)
• Tabled rezoning of multiple parcels (032 031A, 019C1C, etc.) from M‑1 to M‑2

P:Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will review a variance request for outdoor storage and materials at 2602 N Broad. The meeting also includes an update on code enforcement.

• Variance for 2602 N Broad regarding outdoor storage and materials in the overlay

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional use variance for outdoor storage and building materials at 2602 N Broad Street for a landscaping supply company. The approval includes conditions on fully shielded lighting, screening for corrals, fencing for storage areas, and building code compliance for the shed/office. The commission also approved the February 27, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0).

• Approved variance for 2602 N Broad St with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Feb 27, 2023 minutes (3-0)

P:Work Session

The Commerce Planning Commission will hold a work session on September 12, 2022. Commissioners will call the meeting to order and hold a discussion on ordinance updates. No specific actions or decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Ordinance update discussion

The Planning Commission held a work session to discuss proposed updates to the city's zoning ordinances, specifically focusing on environmental overlay districts and development permitting. The discussion included requests for clarifications on mitigation procedures, revisions to water supply watersheds, and updates to various sections regarding public rights-of-way, cul-de-sac lengths, and street standards.

• Discussed updates to Environmental Overlay districts (Section 5)
• Requested clarification on mitigation of violations
• Recommended Georgia Exotic Pest Species Plant Council list for invasive species
• Requested addition of Grove River water supply watershed
• Requested revision of calculation factors in Section 5-307
• Requested updates to maps and criteria in Section 5-4
• Requested elimination of Section 5-406 (a) (e)
• Requested inclusion of all public ROWs in Section 6-202

C:Regular Meeting

The Commerce City Council will meet on October 21, 2024 at 6:00 PM at the Commerce Cultural Center. The council will consider budget amendments for FY2024 and FY2025 to comply with state law, a rezoning request that the applicant has asked to withdraw, a power sale agreement with the City of Sandersville, participation in the HEAT utility assistance program, reappointments to the Recreation Board, and several street closures for community events. The agenda also includes a September 2024 financial report from the Finance Director.

• Consider approval of budget amendments for FY2024 and FY2025 to balance the city budget per state law
• Consider PR24-0009 rezoning of 21.5 acres at 0 Duncan Circle from R-1 to R-2 (request to withdraw by applicant)
• Consider MEAG Power Sale Agreement to sell excess power to City of Sandersville, GA
• Consider participation in the Heating Energy Assistance Team (HEAT) program for natural gas utility bill assistance
• Consider street closures on Minish Dr., Sycamore St., Broad St., and others for the Commerce High School Band Battle, Christmas Tree Lighting, and Christmas Parade

City Council approved a budget amendment to fully replace the roof at 110 State Street following Hurricane Helene damage. The council also authorized a power sale agreement with the City of Sandersville and approved several upcoming street closures for community events.

• Approved $448,000 budget amendment for full roof replacement at Administration Building (Unanimous)
• Approved sale of 2.5MWh of excess power to City of Sandersville at $50/MWh (Unanimous)
• Approved participation in the Heating Energy Assistance Team (HEAT) program (Unanimous)
• Approved reappointment of Cooper Huff and Rob Brown to Recreation Board for 36 months (Unanimous)
• Approved street closures on Minish Dr. for High School Band Battle on Nov. 2 (Unanimous)
• Approved street closures for Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 26 (Unanimous)
• Approved street closures for Christmas Parade on Nov. 30 (Unanimous)
• Rezoning request for 0 Duncan Circle withdrawn by applicant