The Pickens County Planning Commission convened on May 13, 2024, to discuss various local development issues, including property disputes and business growth opportunities. The meeting began with a presentation from a local business representative who highlighted the company's current workforce of approximately 75 employees and expressed a need for expanded building space to accommodate anticipated growth. The representative emphasized that without additional facilities, the business would be unable to accept new work, thereby limiting its potential for accelerated growth.

Following this, a resident, Don Cloud, raised concerns regarding a property boundary dispute involving 4.96 acres adjacent to her land. Cloud explained that she had purchased the property in 2020 and had been paying taxes on it, but recent surveying indicated a potential encroachment on her land. She sought clarification on the ownership of the disputed land, which had been a source of stress for her and her family.

In response, another attendee clarified that the confusion stemmed from an error in the deed prepared by the previous owner’s attorney. The speaker assured Cloud that the disputed land was indeed hers and that the issue could be resolved through legal channels to correct the title description.

The discussion then shifted to concerns from neighboring property owners about the potential industrialization of the area. One resident expressed apprehension that the growth of the business could lead to increased industrial activity, which might disrupt the agricultural nature of the surrounding properties. The resident emphasized their desire to maintain the rural character of the area and protect their investment in agricultural land.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the Planning Commission to address the concerns raised, particularly regarding property disputes and the impact of business expansion on the local community. The commission acknowledged the importance of balancing development with the preservation of the county's agricultural heritage. Further follow-up actions were planned to ensure that all parties involved could reach a satisfactory resolution.