Developers propose large annexation and apartment plan; neighbors raise traffic and infrastructure concerns

Developers with HFG Development asked the Barnesville City Council to consider annexation and rezoning for two substantial projects: a proposed residential subdivision south of the Johnstonville/Roberts Road intersection and a multifamily redevelopment of the former National Guard Armory at 408 Highway 41 South.

Al Hosford, representing HFG, said he reduced an earlier proposal from roughly 170 lots to about 145 after feedback from staff and the Planning Commission. Hosford described the homes as for sale (not built-for-rent) and said the Planning Commission had recommended approval of the annexation request to bring the property into the city’s regulatory framework.

Neighbors and local stakeholders urged caution. “The intersection is not equipped to handle the traffic coming out,” one resident said, urging studies on access and safety. County and municipal commenters also stressed the need for traffic, stormwater, and infrastructure impact studies before large-scale annexation and development decisions. A county commissioner-elect told the council to “proceed with caution” and consider broader infrastructure impacts beyond immediate economic gains.

Developers noted that the armory site needs remediation and cleanup, and they offered to place a commemorative plaque acknowledging the historic school that once stood on the armory parcel. City staff confirmed the submittals had been made as first readings; rezoning, annexation, and any variance requests would require later public hearings, formal plan review, and—if approved—conditions to address fire, utility, and road access.

No final votes on annexation or rezoning were recorded at the first-reading stage; the council received the presentations and scheduled follow-up steps. Residents and council members requested objective traffic and infrastructure studies before any final approvals.