Advisory board denies rezoning for planned 204‑unit active‑adult townhome project off Anvil Block Road

The Henry County Zoning Advisory Board voted to deny a rezoning request (RZ 24‑17) that would have allowed an active‑adult, fee‑simple townhome community on about 43.78 acres south of Anvil Block Road and west of Bowden Road.

Planning staff presented the item and recommended approval subject to conditions, reporting that the requested RM zoning would yield a net density of 6.95 dwelling units per acre, below the Low Density Mixed Use allowance of 8 du/acre in the county's comprehensive plan. Staff also noted required compliance with highway corridor overlay and multifamily design standards.

Michelle Battle, representing Ryan Homes, told the board the project is intended to supply a gap in active‑adult housing near existing retail and medical services and described design elements such as a pool, pavilion, pickleball courts and a dog park. Battle said the product is a two‑story townhome with a primary bedroom on the main floor.

Public comment included neighbors and community groups who opposed townhomes and urged single‑family, ranch‑style options for older residents. Connie Snow of Conserve Henry told the board: "most senior citizens prefer to live in homes without stairs." Several speakers said the area already has multiple townhome developments and that seniors in the neighborhood prefer single‑story living.

After presentations and public comment, a motion to deny the rezoning passed.

Details: the developer proposed 204 fee‑simple townhome units marketed to older adults (55+). Staff recommended approval with conditions, including that elevations be "conceptually consistent" with those presented. The advisory board rejected the rezoning; the matter will move to the Board of Commissioners for final action.