Planning panel approves rezoning of 17.75-acre Cantrell property for family estate in Pickens County

Planning staff recommended and the Pickens County Planning Commission approved a rezoning that will allow a 17.75-acre tract owned by Jackie Cantrell to move from agricultural to rural residential zoning.

At the hearing planning staff explained the request for RZ191138 (Parcel 065084), saying the change would align the parcel with surrounding low-density residential and small agricultural properties and would ‘‘enhance the property's value and marketability while maintaining the area's rural character,’’ according to the planning staff presentation. Staff recommended approval as a reasonable land-use decision that allows limited family-oriented residential development while respecting existing infrastructure.

Applicant testimony came from Wanda Paris, who gave her address for the record and said the rezoning would facilitate family estate planning so that children and grandchildren can be provided for on the property. Paris told the commission that the parcel could accommodate immediate family needs.

A commission member moved to approve RZ191138 “as presented.” The motion was seconded and the chair called for a voice/hand-raise vote; the transcript records that the motion carried but does not include a roll-call tally.

The commission’s approval is a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners, which makes the final decision on zoning changes. The planning director noted that the commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to that body.