Whitfield County debates poultry ordinance with increased setbacks and community concerns

In a packed Whitfield County meeting room, community members gathered to voice their concerns over the growing presence of commercial poultry operations, particularly in the northern part of the county. The Planning Commission convened on February 24, 2025, to discuss a proposed ordinance amendment aimed at regulating these operations more stringently.

The proposed changes would significantly increase the setbacks for poultry houses from 25 feet to 200 feet from any property line and limit the number of chicken houses to eight per parcel, requiring a minimum of 40 acres for such operations. This amendment is seen as a response to mounting complaints about odors and environmental impacts associated with poultry farming.

Ethan, a representative from the commission, explained that the current regulations are minimal and that the proposed changes would provide a more substantial buffer for neighboring properties. He emphasized that existing poultry operations would be allowed to continue under a non-conforming status, meaning they could not expand but could make necessary repairs.

Supporters of the amendment, including local poultry farmers, expressed that the changes represent a fair compromise. Heath Oaten, a farmer and board member of the Whitfield County Farm Bureau, acknowledged the community's concerns but argued that the poultry industry is essential for food production and that farmers strive to be good neighbors.

However, many residents voiced their frustrations, highlighting issues beyond setbacks, such as water runoff and the lack of local oversight. Mike Key, a resident from the Leisure Lake community, presented evidence of environmental degradation linked to poultry operations, including harmful algae blooms in local waters. He called for a 90-day moratorium on new permits to allow for further discussion and research into the impacts of poultry farming.

Others echoed similar sentiments, questioning the adequacy of the proposed regulations and the potential for future expansions of poultry operations under the new ordinance. Concerns were raised about the classification of poultry farming under general agriculture zoning, suggesting that a separate classification might be necessary to address the scale of commercial operations.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that while the proposed ordinance aimed to tighten regulations, many community members felt it did not go far enough to address their concerns. The discussion highlighted a growing tension between agricultural interests and residential quality of life, leaving the commission with the challenge of balancing these competing needs.

The Planning Commission is expected to consider the feedback from this meeting as they move forward with their recommendations to the Board of Commissioners, potentially leading to further amendments or a more comprehensive review of poultry farming regulations in Whitfield County.