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Statesboro-area builders urge clear scope, fairness in proposed county impact-fee study
Summary
A local homebuilder urged the Bulloch County commission to define projects, methodology and geography before spending $100,000 on an impact-fee study, warning that fees levied at permitting often are passed to consumers and may be unfair if applied countywide.
Matt Hollingsworth, owner of Hollingsworth Homes and president of the Statesboro Home Builders Association, told the Bulloch County commission that the county should clarify the intended projects and geography before contracting a $100,000 methodology study for impact fees.
Hollingsworth said impact fees can fund transportation or other infrastructure projects tied to new development. He cited a nearby example where a $3,500 transportation impact fee is collected at building permit to pay for road improvements and preserve levels of service. ‘‘What exactly are you getting for the $100,000 that you’re paying for?’’ Hollingsworth asked, urging the county to confirm whether the study includes a current level-of-service analysis and a capital plan.
Hollingsworth raised fairness questions about a countywide fee if development is concentrated in one part of Bulloch County. He suggested district-based fees — charge only in the district where the permit is issued — or using the fees alongside other revenue sources. He also asked whether an independent impact-fee advisory committee will be convened to review methodology and implementation.
Why this matters: Impact fees affect permit costs, housing supply and who ultimately pays for infrastructure improvements. Hollingsworth noted builders typically pass fees to buyers, which can deter development if applied broadly without demonstrated need and proportionality. The commission treated the presentation as an initial step and did not adopt an ordinance during the meeting.
Commission staff said the county is at a presentation stage and will receive a methodology report from consultants if the $100,000 contract proceeds. Commissioners and staff discussed outreach, and Hollingsworth recommended that the study explicitly identify candidate projects, district boundaries and the committee that will vet the methodology.
No vote on implementing an impact-fee ordinance occurred at the meeting; the item was described as an informational presentation and preliminary discussion.
