Savannah City Council debates annexation of 677 acres for mixed-use development amid community concerns

The Savannah City Council convened on December 19, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, including community concerns regarding a proposed development project and a significant annexation proposal.

The meeting began with a discussion on a controversial project involving underground parking. One council member expressed strong opposition, citing potential negative impacts on nearby homes, including possible foundation issues. The member emphasized the importance of community input, recalling previous resident objections to the project. The council acknowledged the first reading of the proposal, allowing for further discussions and community engagement before any decisions are made.

Another council member raised concerns about proposed 24-hour parking in the area, suggesting that it could compromise safety. They advocated for a more cautious approach, emphasizing the need to preserve the historical character of the neighborhood. The member also highlighted the importance of establishing a Community Benefit Agreement (CBA) to ensure accountability from developers, noting that while good neighbor agreements are beneficial, they lack enforceability.

Following this, Bridget Liddy, the Director of Planning and Urban Design, presented a petition for the annexation of approximately 677 acres of land located off Busch Road. The proposal aims to rezone the area to support residential and mixed-use development, potentially accommodating up to 1,500 housing units. Liddy explained that the annexation aligns with previous intergovernmental agreements and is intended to provide essential utility services to the area.

The council heard from community members during a public hearing segment. Carrie Bieber, representing the West Chatham County Community Watch, voiced concerns about the lack of community meetings regarding the annexation. She called for a cultural resource study to preserve the area's historical significance and requested that the council postpone the decision until proper community engagement could occur.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further discussions and the importance of community involvement in the development process. The council plans to revisit these topics in future meetings, ensuring that resident concerns are addressed as they move forward with the proposed projects.