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Motion to advance DeKalb County zoning planning fails after roll-call vote
Summary
A motion to continue discussion and move forward with county zoning planning for public input was put to a roll-call vote March 23 and—despite six recorded yes votes—was recorded in the minutes as "failed for lack of majority." The measure drew both support and opposition from commissioners and public commenters had raised zoning concerns earlier in the meeting.
A motion to continue discussion and move forward with countywide zoning planning to solicit public input failed at the DeKalb County Legislative Body meeting on March 23, 2026.
The motion was made by Commissioner Beth Pafford and seconded by Commissioner Larry Green. The roll call recorded six yes votes (Sabrina Farler, Mathias Anderson, Andy Pack, Beth Pafford, Larry Green and Jack Barton) and five no votes (Tony Culwell, Jeff Barnes, Brandon Donnell, Greg Matthews and Glynn Merriman). The meeting minutes state the motion "failed for lack of majority." The minutes do not provide an explanation for that determination beyond the recorded votes.
The zoning item followed public comments earlier in the meeting in which several residents raised concerns about zoning and county powers. Steve Cantrell of the 5th District told the commission he was concerned about county leadership plans; Jerry Adcock of the 5th District raised zoning and building-name concerns and urged support for particular candidates; Darcy Cripps read a letter from Paul Miranda (4th District) expressing zoning and County Powers Act concerns.
Commissioners who voted yes argued for continuing planning and soliciting public input; those voting no withheld support. The transcript records the vote outcome but does not include extended debate text or an amended motion.
Next steps: The minutes record no further motion on zoning during the meeting. The record does not specify when or whether the commission will revisit a zoning planning effort.
