Columbia County adopts resolution opposing Harlem's planned annexation of 736.3 acres

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners voted May 6 to adopt a resolution formally opposing the proposed annexation by the city of Harlem of a 736.3‑acre parcel identified as Tax Parcel ID 020012.

Commissioner Valier moved to approve Resolution No. 2,515, which the board read into the record. The resolution states the parcel is currently zoned RA in Columbia County and that annexation into Harlem could result in a zoning classification that would permit roughly five times the current County density on the same acreage, which the county said could place an “undue burden on the Columbia County school system” and on county infrastructure such as roads.

The resolution identifies the property owner as Log Creek LLLP and says, in part, that to the board's understanding the owner has not contacted Columbia County to discuss potential development. The text asks Harlem to “abandon this pursuit for the best interest of the citizens of Columbia County.” County speakers noted the board cannot take a legal position to block annexation but can formally register its opposition to the proposed action.

The resolution passed on a majority vote. Staff and commissioners emphasized concerns about increased maintenance and expansion costs for county roads that serve the area, unanticipated infrastructure demands, and potential impacts to schools if the property were developed at a higher density after annexation.

The county said the resolution will be transmitted to the city of Harlem as an expression of the board’s objection and to flag county concerns before any further annexation proceedings.