Neighbors oppose event venue; Bulloch County denies conditional‑use request for Old Deal Road property

Bulloch County commissioners voted to deny a conditional‑use application from Samuel (Clint) Lovett Sr. to host private and public functions at 2999 Old Deal Road, a property in the Portal area.

Planning staff noted that Planning & Zoning had recommended denial by a 3–1 vote and listed site limitations and recommended conditions tied to emergency vehicle access. Lovett told the board the property previously hosted family events and that he planned limited, regulated gatherings; he emphasized care for the property and proposed monitoring and contract provisions to limit disturbances.

Neighbors and adjacent landowners spoke together during public comment and submitted a petition opposing the proposal. Speakers cited increased traffic on a narrow, rural county road, inadequate parking, late‑night noise and lighting, negative impacts on property values and the absence of a buffer between the venue and nearby homes. "This area does not have the proper infrastructure to handle an additional 200 to 300 cars," one neighbor said; several other nearby homeowners said events would jeopardize sleep, safety and the agricultural character of the area.

Commission discussion referenced prior similar requests in the county, the size of expected gatherings, and the need for emergency‑vehicle access and parking controls. After debate the board denied the conditional use (vote recorded 4–2).

Why it matters: The decision preserves the rural, low‑density character of Old Deal Road and reinforces neighbors' influence on conditional‑use approvals. The record shows detailed concerns about traffic circulation, night lighting, enforcement and the difficulty of retrofitting narrow rural roads to safely accommodate event traffic.

Formal action: Motion to deny the conditional‑use application for 2999 Old Deal Road; motion passed 4–2. See "Votes at a glance" for the board roll call and additional context.