Planning commission denies rezoning for used-car lot at Gum Creek Church Road and Highway 81 after heavy neighborhood opposition

The Walton County Planning Commission voted to deny a land-use change and rezoning request that would have allowed motor vehicle sales on a 0.63-acre parcel at 2660 Gum Creek Church Road at Highway 81.

Applicant Nityanen Sankar requested the rezoning to operate a small used-car sales lot and said he would use the existing driveway on Gum Creek Church Road, would not perform repairs there and expected to keep about 15 vehicles on site. He said the on-site house would be used as an office and that any mechanical work would continue at his existing repair shop in Loganville.

A large group of nearby residents spoke in opposition and raised concerns about traffic, pedestrian safety, the adequacy of the existing road/turning geometry and spillover parking. Residents asked whether a deceleration or turn lane on Highway 81 would be required, and staff and commissioners explained that state and county departments of transportation govern driveway access and that traffic improvements and required studies would be addressed during permitting if the use were approved. One opponent noted the proximity of schools and the potential for increased traffic during peak hours.

The commission considered the public comment and a staff note that county public works may require a commercial driveway and possibly a deceleration lane at permitting. After public testimony, a motion to deny the rezoning carried by voice vote; the planning commission will forward the recommendation of denial to the Walton County Board of Commissioners for final action.

The applicant was told that if permission for a state-highway curb cut were required, that is handled by the Georgia Department of Transportation and would be part of the permitting and review process. Commissioners emphasized they only consider the requested land use and do not have authority to unilaterally require state roadway changes.