Commission follows staff recommendation and denies rezoning, special‑use for proposed mini‑storage and outside storage

The Planning Commission voted to follow staff recommendations and deny both a rezoning application and a companion special‑use permit for a proposed mini‑warehouse and outside storage project brought by Omega Development Corporation and represented by WK Dixon / Chuck Rand.

Chuck Rand, speaking for the applicant, said the site sits at a crossroads area and argued the use could be appropriate there; the applicant requested several adjustments to staff stipulations, including a landscape buffer approach and willingness to donate right‑of‑way as needed for future road improvements. Paulding County staff recommended denial.

After discussion, Commissioner Leggett moved to deny, seconded by Commissioner Callahan. The Planning Commission denied the rezoning (motion recorded as passing 5–0 with one abstention) and, separately, denied the SUP (recorded as passed 5–1–1). The items will be forwarded to the Board of Commissioners for final decision; staff advised the applicant to work with county staff on any future resubmittals.

Opponents at the hearing raised concerns about traffic, intersection sight‑distance at Pleasant Grove Road and Highway 101 and potential loss of rural character. The county noted possible right‑of‑way needs and that any future plan review would require traffic and drainage analysis if proposals return.