Southeast Capital proposes 52 townhomes in South Fulton amid community concerns

The Planning Commission meeting held on June 18, 2025, in South Fulton, Georgia, focused on a significant rezoning request that could reshape the local housing landscape. The applicant, Southeast Capital Companies, is seeking to rezone a 12.1-acre site from an unlimited commercial district (C-1) to a townhome residential district (TR). This proposal includes a future land use amendment from Suburban Neighborhood 1 to Suburban Neighborhood 2, aiming to develop 52 for-sale townhomes.

The request comes amid growing community interest in diversifying housing options in the area. Hakeem Hillier, representing Southeast Capital, emphasized that the proposal was developed in response to community feedback, highlighting the desire for more for-sale housing rather than rental units. The proposed townhomes would feature modern amenities, including two-car garages and community spaces such as a dog park and children's play area, with prices expected to range from $359,000 to $389,000.

Despite the applicant's enthusiasm, city staff recommended denial of the request, citing concerns over density and its potential impact on local traffic. Community members echoed these concerns during the public comment portion of the meeting. Marcus Carter, president of the Clifton Dale Community Club Association, expressed the need for careful consideration of traffic flow and infrastructure improvements, particularly on Cascade Palmetto Road and Campbellton Road, which are already experiencing congestion.

Opposition was also voiced by residents like Allison Dozier, who raised questions about the adequacy of existing infrastructure to support new development. She called for transparency regarding homeowners' association (HOA) plans and community covenants, emphasizing the importance of understanding how new developments would integrate with the existing neighborhood.

In response to community concerns, Southeast Capital representatives highlighted their commitment to engaging with local residents, noting that they had held numerous meetings to gather feedback and adjust their plans accordingly. They argued that the proposed development would be less intense than potential commercial alternatives, which could lead to greater traffic and disruption.

As the meeting concluded, the Planning Commission faced the challenge of balancing community desires for new housing with the practical implications of increased density and traffic. The outcome of this proposal remains uncertain, as the commission prepares to deliberate on the findings of fact presented by staff. The decision will have lasting implications for the community's growth and development trajectory in South Fulton.