Planning commission recommends approval of Roselle property rezone to AR; one commissioner votes no

The Elbert County Planning Commission voted 6–1 to recommend approval of the Roselle rezone (RZ‑2023‑2498), a request to change 24981 Cave Spring Trail from agriculture zoning to agriculture‑residential to allow smaller lot sizes and accessory dwelling units.

Kelsey Lanham, planner with the Elbert County Planning Department, told the commission the property is “just over 35 acres in size” and that the applicant, Paul Rozelle, had satisfied the community‑meeting and referral requirements. “The rezone is generally consistent with the goals and policies of the Elbert County comprehensive plan,” Lanham said and noted agency reviewers including Elbert Fire District and the Division of Water Resources raised no objections during referral.

The recommendation follows a staff report that summarized review criteria in the Elbert County Zoning Regulations (article 3.c.4). The report said the proposed AR zoning “is compatible with surrounding land uses,” that necessary public‑service reviews returned no outstanding objections, and that the HOA for the adjacent Palmer Divide/East Cherry Creek subdivision had approved the request. The staff report listed conditions of approval including that the rezone exhibit meet zoning standards, signs be removed within two weeks of final decisions, fees be paid before the rezone takes effect, and recordation occur within 180 days of BOCC approval.

Applicant Paul Rozelle spoke briefly to the commission, noting the request is intended to allow family succession and eventual subdivision for family members. Neighbor Scott Paul English, a resident on Cave Spring Trail, raised concerns about an existing planned road shown on county maps and about the status of the subdivision HOA maps and records. Lanham responded that road alignment and plat matters are addressed in the plat process and that HOA mapping corrections can be pursued through the appropriate application types.

At roll call the commission recorded: Didi Schott Grace — aye; John Gresham — aye; Nicole Hunt — aye; Kyle DiNardo — aye; Dan McCallum — aye; Diana Edstrom — no; Kevin Kirkwood — aye. Chairman Kevin Kirkwood declared the recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners passed, noting the single dissenting vote. The case is scheduled for BOCC consideration on Aug. 27; if the board approves the rezone it will become effective after recordation and meeting the conditions listed in the staff report.

Why it matters: The AR zoning allows smaller lot sizes and accessory dwelling units, which affects future subdivision potential, housing density and the character of the local neighborhood. The commission’s recommendation moves the matter to the Board of County Commissioners for final action.

What’s next: The BOCC will hear the case on Aug. 27; if the BOCC approves the rezone it must be recorded and fees paid before it takes effect.