Planning board recommends approval for ABA Development’s R-25 subdivision on Maria Sorrell Road with conditions

The Bulloch County Planning & Zoning Board recommended approval of ABA Development LLC’s application to rezone 50.13 acres on Maria Sorrell Road from AG-5 to R-25, a density the applicant says aligns with surrounding neighborhoods.

Planning staff placed the property at the edge of the county’s suburban neighborhood character area and noted surrounding land uses include light industrial, an active railroad line and existing R-25 subdivisions. Agent Grace Wooten of Pike Dawson Engineers said the project complies with the comprehensive plan and that the applicant accepts staff conditions related to tree canopy, playground areas and conventional site-built construction.

A nearby resident, Lisa Safely, opposed the rezoning and told the board she is concerned about increased rooftop runoff into a stream and wetlands that already drain through undersized culverts. She also described heavy truck activity to a nearby concrete/civil materials facility and said the railroad crossing at Maria Sorrell is in poor condition. The applicant said engineering plans would include on-site detention and that state and county reviews will ensure no off-site runoff increases.

Following discussion of buffers, stormwater ponds and access, the board voted to recommend approval; the recommendation will go to the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners for final action. One board member recorded an opposition vote; the motion carried 4–1.

Why it matters: The site sits near industrial uses and an active rail line; neighbors flagged safety and drainage issues that the county engineer and state reviewers will be asked to address during development review.

Next steps: The advisory approval will be forwarded to the county commissioners for a public hearing; engineering plans will be subject to state and county review.