In a recent government meeting, the commission reviewed a special use permit request from Danny Dangler on behalf of Champagne Toasters LLC for a property located at 211 Malestic Highway 108. The proposal aims to establish a drive-thru convenience store and truck stop with fuel scales at the site, which was previously home to Dunn's restaurant and gas station before its demolition earlier this year.

The property, approximately 2.25 acres and zoned C-2 general commercial, is situated at a busy intersection, surrounded by undeveloped commercially zoned land. Clipper Petroleum, the developer, plans to create a facility that will include a drive-thru exclusively for Clipper-branded products, including their \"Grab and Go\" burrito concept, rather than partnering with national restaurant chains.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding traffic at the intersection, prompting the applicant to engage with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for potential mitigation strategies. An engineered traffic study will be conducted as part of the site plan review process.

The commission discussed several conditions for the special use permit, including limiting the drive-thru to accessory use for the convenience store, ensuring efficient traffic flow with a bypass lane, and requiring weather protection at the pickup window. Additional conditions include maintaining a minimum stacking distance in the drive-thru and ensuring pedestrian safety with proper signage.

The commission ultimately recommended approval of the permit, subject to the outlined conditions, aligning with the Pickens County Joint Comprehensive Plan that promotes highway-oriented land uses in the area. The meeting concluded with a motion for approval, which passed unanimously.