South Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals reverses staff zoning interpretation, approves plat with interconnectivity and mixed‑use conditions

The South Fulton Zoning Board of Appeals on Feb. 3, 2026 reversed a staff zoning interpretation and approved a plat for development in Pod F of the Sandtown Center project, imposing conditions that require interconnectivity across Pod F and inclusion of a mixed‑use component shown on the original plan.

Attorney Hakeem Hilliard, representing the applicant and developer, told the board the city bears the burden of proving any revocation of previously granted zoning rights. "The city bears the burden of proof," Hilliard said, arguing the 2004 modification was a technical adjustment that preserved the original program and that "absent express revocation, the entitlements remain." Hilliard also said prior staff correspondence from Director Reginald McClendon confirming a remaining right to develop 200 multifamily units for the northwest quadrant supports…