After split vote, planning commission approves package‑store special use permit and variance on Bells Ferry Road

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of a special use permit and an exceptional variance for a standalone package store at the intersection of Bells Ferry Road and Bice Lake Parkway after a divided vote.

The applicant’s attorney said the county approved a referendum allowing package‑store districts and that the proposed location sits on a signalized intersection and would be a stand‑alone 5,000‑square‑foot building with 90% brick or stone and security cameras, consistent with recent county design standards for package stores. He said parking would be at the rear and the operator would actively manage the lot.

Dozens of residents and community members spoke in opposition during the public hearing. Speakers cited the site’s proximity to apartment complexes with families, a school‑bus pickup across the street, and a 12‑step recovery center they said holds thousands of meetings annually. Opponents raised concerns about potential loitering, nighttime activity, traffic and public‑safety effects, and cited academic studies linking higher alcohol‑outlet density to increases in certain crimes and adolescent drinking.

Commissioners debated the overlay rules that allow commercial uses close to residences in the Bice Lake mixed‑use area. An initial motion to recommend denial failed on a 6–3 count; an alternate motion to recommend approval then passed 6–3. The commission approved the accompanying exceptional variance by the same 6–3 margin.

Several commissioners stressed the difference between this site and other potential locations and pointed to the countywide referendum and overlay district that designated selected areas for package‑store uses. Conditions discussed in staff materials include standalone building construction standards, security measures and limits on outdoor storage and drive‑through windows; the county’s alcohol ordinance requires specific building and security standards for package stores.

The Planning Commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the County Commission; approval at the county level and required licensing would follow standard permitting and licensing steps.