Board schedules zoning ordinance public hearing
The Henry County Board of Supervisors has scheduled a public hearing for proposed zoning ordinance amendments. These amendments include new guidelines for potential data center and battery energy storage system developments, covering aspects like water supply, screening, noise, and setbacks. The proposed changes also align with new state-level laws and aim to encourage housing development in the county.
The Henry County Board of Supervisors has scheduled a public hearing for July 28 to gather public comment on proposed amendments to its zoning ordinance. Lee Clark, Director of Planning, Zoning & Inspections, stated that the Planning Commission, following extensive work sessions and a prior public hearing with no public input, unanimously recommended the board adopt the amendments.
The proposed changes address various land use issues, including clarifying definitions for group homes, adjusting accessory structure sizes, and integrating container homes into the A1 zoning classification. Notably, the Commission is recommending a specific ordinance for data centers and battery energy storage systems, which would establish minimum guidelines for such uses should they be proposed in the county. These guidelines would cover water supply impact studies, screening requirements, noise limits, and setbacks.
County Administrator Dale Wagoner emphasized that the recommendations align with new state-level laws, particularly those related to data centers, to ensure appropriate land use and promote housing. Chairman Jim Adams noted that many recommendations focus on protection rather than authorization. Additionally, the Board approved a temporary waiver of building permit fees for new residential construction and major renovations exceeding $100,000, effective through July 1, 2028, as part of efforts to address housing shortages and boost economic growth in Henry County.