Planning board approves variance to split Shiflett parcel into two sub-3-acre lots

The Spalding County Planning Board on an administrative vote approved a variance to allow a 4.88‑acre parcel to be split into two R‑1 lots of 2.44 acres each, lowering the minimum required lot size from three acres to 2.44 acres per lot. The board voted 4‑0 after a public hearing and staff recommendation for approval.

The applicant, Michael Shiflett, told the board the property at “1120 Melior Road or Malior” was purchased by his parents in 1951 and that he planned to divide it to pass part of the land to each of his two sons. “I received the old home place at 4.8 acres ... I was just gonna split the property and give each one of my sons equal part,” Shiflett said at the podium. His son, Brandon Shiflett, also spoke in support.

The county zoning administrator said staff recommended approval and noted the new survey shows each parcel will be 2.44 acres. “That is just below the 3 acre minimum. However, ... there is plenty of buildable area on these lots ... The staff does not have a problem with these being both 2.44 acres a piece,” the zoning administrator said.

Board members questioned whether the applicants intended an even split or to make one lot three acres and the other smaller; the applicant confirmed he was open to either option but preferred an equal split. The zoning administrator said the recommendation was to approve the equal split as shown on the survey. The board clarified that the variance, if approved, would split the property directly in half and that both lots were the subject of the variance request.

After discussion the board moved and seconded approval, and the vote was recorded as 4‑0 in favor. The planning board closed the public hearing before taking the vote.

The action allows the county to accept the division as requested; additional building permits or reviews would remain subject to applicable permitting and inspection processes.