Proposed Rezoning for Single-Family Development Discussed by Demorest City Council

By: Nora Almazan

A proposed rezoning request for property off Saluda Drive was discussed during the Demorest City Council meeting Monday, March 3rd.

Attorney Matt Benson of Mahaffey Pickens Tucker, based in Jefferson, Georgia, addressed the council on behalf of a potential developer seeking to rezone approximately 10.74 acres of land from Agriculture to R-2, which is designated for multi-family residential use.

Benson clarified that the proposed development would not include apartments, condominiums, or townhouses. Instead, the plan calls for a 34-lot single-family detached subdivision.

Residents were allowed to speak during the Public Hearing, including Rick and Jennifer Austin, who voiced opposition to the rezoning request. The Austins raised concerns about flooding in the area, suggesting the conditions may not be ideal for a residential subdivision and could pose safety concerns for future homeowners. Due to the slope of the land and the fact the property sits at a higher elevation, run-off is highly probable.

Austin described incidents where the property and the creek next to it quickly turned into a lake after a hard rain.

Additional issues discussed included sewage capacity and potential water-usage related problems, which could create complications if the development moves forward.

Benson emphasized that the developer would meet all required conditions before moving forward with any future development. He noted the developer intends to meet — and exceed — those requirements, but explained that the purpose of the current discussion was simply to consider the possibility of rezoning and not to approve any specific development plans at this time.

The property in question is located in District 10 of Habersham County and is identified as Tax Map Number 0780874.

Citizens interested in reviewing the proposed plans may do so at Demorest City Hall, located at 250 Alabama Street, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Final adoption of the rezoning request is scheduled to be heard during the Demorest City Council meeting on April 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. At that time, residents and interested parties will have the opportunity to speak regarding the proposed request.