Peaches and Cream Academy seeks special land-use permit to operate home daycare at 3356 Panola Road

Peaches and Cream Academy requested a special land-use permit (SLUP240093356) to operate as a Type 2 home-occupation child day care at 3356 Panola Road during the City of Stonecrest community planning information meeting on Feb. 13, 2025.

Thomas Dortch spoke on behalf of owner Lita Spivey, describing Peaches and Cream Academy as “a pillar of this community” with more than 30 years of operation and a track record of former students who have pursued higher education and careers. Dortch said the facility cares for children “as young as 8 months up to 4 years” and that the property is off the street with a playground and indoor spaces that staff will maintain to code.

Dortch said the owner has maintained a state license but had been confused about a separate city business license requirement after the establishment of the City of Stonecrest; he said the presenter and supporters will assist Spivey to ensure “proper documentation and certification in place to stay in good standing.”

A public commenter identified as Carol Dortch, who described herself as a parent and longtime community member, spoke in support and said she and others submitted testimonials from adults who attended the academy and later completed college. Other supporters in the public comment period expressed support for the academy’s role in the community.

Staff materials shown at the meeting listed the parcel number as 160430379, tax district 80 (Stonecrest), owner listed as Spivey Lita Forehand, acreage 1.68, future land use “suburban,” and current zoning R-100 (residential). No formal vote was taken at the informational meeting; staff informed applicants that the petition will go to the Planning Commission on March 4, 2025, and later to the mayor and city council in March for final action.

The owner and representatives said they will work with city staff to resolve outstanding licensing or business-permit items before later hearings.