Habersham County Commissioners to Consider Budget, Wedding Venue Request, Development Moratorium Extension

The Habersham County Board of Commissioners will meet Monday, June 15, with an agenda featuring a proposed wedding and event venue, the first reading of the county's Fiscal Year 2027 budget, a possible extension of the county's residential development moratorium, and several airport-related contracts.

The meeting will begin with presentations recognizing county employees and a proclamation declaring June 15–20 as Solid Waste and Recycling Workers Week, honoring the employees who provide waste disposal and recycling services throughout Habersham County.

Wedding and Event Venue Proposal Heads to Public Hearing

One of the evening's most anticipated agenda items is a public hearing on a conditional use application submitted by Chris and Melissa Brooks.

The applicants are seeking approval to operate a wedding and event center on approximately 6.24 acres located at 480 Barron Drive. The property is situated within the county's Low Intensity (LI) zoning district and will require approval from commissioners before the project can move forward.

Residents wishing to speak on the proposal will have the opportunity to do so during the public hearing portion of the meeting.

First Reading of Proposed FY 2027 Budget

Commissioners will also conduct the first reading of the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget.

The budget serves as the county's financial roadmap for the coming year and outlines funding for county departments, public safety, infrastructure, and other essential government services. Additional opportunities for public review and discussion are expected before final adoption.

Moratorium Extension Among New Business

Under new business, commissioners will consider extending the county's limited moratorium on accepting applications for preliminary plats involving residential developments of five lots or more, as well as rezonings to Residential Single Family (LI-R), Residential Multi-Family (MI-R), and Planned Development districts.

The temporary moratorium has been in place while Habersham County continues developing its proposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), a comprehensive update to county land use and development regulations.

Commissioners are also expected to receive an update on the progress of the UDO from Planning Director Mike Beecham.

Airport, Insurance and SPLOST Items on Agenda

Several infrastructure and financial matters are also scheduled for consideration.

Among the consent agenda items are a ground lease agreement for construction of a new aircraft hangar at the Habersham County Airport, renewal of the county's property and liability insurance coverage, approval of the annual audit engagement, and an intergovernmental agreement with the counties comprising the Mountain Judicial Circuit.

Commissioners will also consider a resolution authorizing the next steps related to voter-approved SPLOST bonds and review agreements for Extension Services through the University of Georgia.

Later in the meeting, the board is expected to consider awarding requests for proposals for both airport planning and airport design consulting services.

Public Participation Encouraged

Residents wishing to address the Board of Commissioners on agenda items other than public hearings may do so during the public comments portion of the meeting. Speakers who register at the meeting will have three minutes to address the board, while individuals listed on the agenda will be allotted five minutes.

County officials encourage citizens to attend meetings and stay informed on issues affecting the future of Habersham County. Public participation provides residents with an opportunity to ask questions, offer input, and observe the decision-making process firsthand.

The Habersham County Board of Commissioners meeting will be held Monday, June 15, with the public invited to attend.