In a recent government meeting, the Effingham County Board held a public hearing regarding a rezoning request that has sparked significant community interest. The request, presented by Josh Moody on behalf of the Lowell Morgan estate, sought to rezone approximately 2 acres of a 22.63-acre parcel on Haddon Lake Road from Agricultural Residential 1 (AR1) to Agricultural Residential 2 (AR2). This change would allow for additional permitted uses under the AR2 zoning classification.

Steve Candler, the Director of Development Services, outlined the necessity for the rezoning, noting that the current AR1 zoning requires a minimum of 5 acres, which the 2 acres in question do not meet. He emphasized that the rezoning aligns with the county's future land use map, which designates the area for agricultural residential use.

During the public hearing, supporters of the rezoning, including Moody and family members, expressed their desire to maintain the property as intended by the late Lowell Morgan, who had wished for his grandson to inherit the land. They argued that the rezoning would not set a precedent for future developments, as the property would continue to be accessed primarily via Union Springs Road, a county-maintained road, rather than Haddon Lake Road, which is private.

Opponents of the rezoning raised concerns about potential future developments that could arise from this decision, fearing it might lead to increased traffic and a shift in the character of the neighborhood. They referenced a previous case where a similar request was denied due to concerns about setting a precedent for further subdivision developments.

After hearing from both sides, the board members discussed the implications of the rezoning. They acknowledged the unique circumstances of the request, particularly the long-standing residency of Moody on the property and the established access to a county road. Ultimately, the board voted unanimously in favor of the rezoning, citing the specific nature of the request and the assurances that it would not lead to increased traffic or development on Haddon Lake Road.

The board's decision reflects a balance between honoring the family's wishes and addressing community concerns, with members expressing confidence that the rezoning would not open the floodgates for future developments in the area. The second reading of the rezoning request was also approved unanimously, solidifying the change in zoning classification.