Developer proposes new subdivision via annexation in Locust Grove

The city of Locust Grove notified Henry County they had received a new application for annexation off Singley Drive. MBT Investments, LLC of Stockbridge, GA is requesting the annexation of 254 +/- acres. The annexation also includes a concurrent rezoning to allow for a new subdivision.

Present-day zoning for the property is RA (residential agricultural). The applicant is requesting the city’s R-2 zoning district. Within Locust Grove, R-2 zoning allows for minimum 18,000 square foot lots. If the request goes forward, then the project includes 294 lots.

Singley Drive at South Ola Road

The subject property has road frontage on both Singley Drive and South Ola Road. Locust Grove High and Middle School are nearby. Also in the vicinity, LGI Homes is building the Bunn Farms subdivision. Phase I consists of 127 lots. In total, the 291-acre Bunn property has zoning approval for up to 478 single-family lots.

The subject property must be contiguous to city limits to apply for annexation. The applicant has entered into a purchase agreement for 35.1 acres off South Ola Road. The thirty-five acres allow for continuity between Bunn Farms subdivision and two large undeveloped tracts. Bunn Farms subdivision is already within city limitis.

Future Land Use Map

Before the city council can consider the applicant’s petition to annex, the county must first review the request. Henry County cannot block the annexation, but they may object. An objection allows for discussion between the county and city.

The county’s future land use map designates the subject property for rural residential development. This allows for up to one unit per acre. The applicant’s concept has a net density of 1.71 units per acre. The board of commissioners may file an objection when the proposed annexation ”would create a substantial or significant change in zoning or land use.” The board has thirty days to consider the item following notification by the city.

Update: Henry County approved an objection to the annexation on September 21. This starts a dispute resolution process with the city and developer. At this time, the Locust Grove city council has not considered the request.

Featured image shows zoning map at South Ola Road and Singley Drive. Photo credit Henry County.