Planning commission recommends conditional approval for Peaches and Cream Academy day care at 3356 Panola Road

The Stonecrest Planning Commission on March 4, 2025, unanimously recommended approval of Special Land Use Permit SLUP24-009 to allow Peaches and Cream Academy to operate a day care at 3356 Panola Road, forwarding the item to City Council with conditions.

Staff told commissioners the property is zoned R-100 and is a single-family home on approximately 1.68 acres where a day care has operated for many years. Staff recommended conditional approval that requires the facility to obtain and maintain all applicable state and local licenses and inspections before issuance of a Stonecrest business license; to meet state standards for classroom and playground area, fencing and turnaround; to preserve a residential exterior appearance and to limit signage to what is allowed in the underlying residential district. Staff also noted notice was mailed to properties within 1,000 feet and a CPIM was held Feb. 13, 2025.

Letha Spivey (listed in the record as Miss Spivey), owner of Peaches and Cream Academy, submitted a written statement read into the record by Thomas Dortch, her representative. "For over 30 years, Peaches and Cream Academy has been a pillar of this community, providing exceptional care, education, and guidance to the children entrusted to us," the letter said. Dortch and Spivey told commissioners the operator has held state approvals and that an apparent mix-up with municipal mailing and licensing after Stonecrest incorporated led to incomplete city licensing; the applicant said she and supporters will work to bring the business into full compliance with Stonecrest requirements.

Public commenters spoke in favor. Faye Caulfield, a Stonecrest resident, said she had driven past the property for years and described it as well maintained; Meryl Jackson and others also voiced support and personal ties to the program. During discussion, staff and the commission addressed how the ordinance distinguishes a child daycare facility (six or fewer children) from a childcare center (seven or more). The deputy director and city counsel confirmed the zoning ordinance definition treats seven or more as a center and the applicant said she currently has seven children enrolled and is licensed by the state for up to 12.

Commissioner Eric Hubbard moved to recommend approval of SLUP24-009 with the conditions recommended by staff; Vice Chair Erica Williams seconded. The commission voted 3-0 to forward the conditional approval to City Council.

Next steps: the recommendation will be transmitted to the City Council for final action; the applicant must secure required state licenses and a Stonecrest business license and comply with the conditions set by staff before operating under the city permit.