Commission approves preliminary and final plats for Kalki Creek Country Club, with staff approvals required

The Columbia County Planning Commission on May 15 voted to approve both the preliminary and final plats for the Kalki Creek Country Club subdivision, contingent on outstanding staff approvals and required permits.

Planning staff described the development as a private subdivision on roughly 293 acres off Burkes Mountain Road and Smith Oaks Drive with approximately 13 lots, private roads, wells, and septic systems. Because the developer is not dedicating public infrastructure to the county, the county’s standard review focused on platting requirements and bonding for roads. Staff said the developer has posted the required road bond, as allowed by county code, and that final approval is contingent on continued staff review.

Will, a planning staff member presenting the item, explained that the developer will use Burkes Mountain Road for construction access and that a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit to cross a creek remains under review. "The permit to cross that creek has not been approved yet by the Corps of Engineers," he said, and staff’s recommendation was contingent on the Corps’ review and other outstanding staff approvals.

A commissioner moved to approve the preliminary plat "pending staff approvals and recommendations." The motion carried. The final plat likewise was approved with the same contingency language. Staff noted this sequence — consideration of preliminary and final plats at the same meeting — is uncommon but allowed by county code when required bonds and conditions are met.

Because roads and utilities will remain private and the subdivision relies on wells and septic systems, the county will not accept infrastructure for maintenance. Staff will verify Corps of Engineers permitting and other conditions before recording final plats.