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Macon commissioners narrowly reject proposal to waive construction-related environmental health fees
Summary
A motion to waive all construction-related environmental health fees — proposed as an incentive to spur housing development — failed 2–3 after the health director and county attorney flagged administrative and Board of Health approval issues and commissioners expressed concerns about departmental cost recovery.
Commissioner Higdon moved on Nov. 12 to waive all construction-related environmental health fees in Macon County as a tool to incentivize housing development. He framed the proposal in the context of the county’s housing shortage and referenced the earlier consultant presentation. Commissioner Shearl seconded the motion.
Health Director Kathy McGaha told the board that such a fee waiver had not been done elsewhere in the state, warned that the local Board of Health would need to approve any change, and expressed concern that waiving fees could create an influx of incomplete or nonserious permit applications that would burden a small staff. County Attorney Eric Ridenour confirmed Board of Health involvement and reviewed the procedural constraints. Commissioner Young said he would support waivers in limited hardship cases (e.g., failed septic or dry wells) but opposed a blanket waiver because department fees cover operating costs. Commissioners Antoine, Young and Shields voted against the motion; Commissioners Higdon and Shearl voted for it. The motion failed 2–3.
The minutes record the board’s substantive discussion and the vote but do not show any immediate policy change; Ms. McGaha said she will present the matter to the Board of Health for consideration.
