Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Comment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Business group urges design standards and resident warns of rising homelessness in Blue Ridge
Summary
A representative of the Blue Ridge Business Association asked for clarity in fee comparisons and a business seat on a proposed architectural design committee; a long-time resident said homelessness is rising and claimed many people appearing homeless were dropped off from other cities.
During the public-comment portion of the meeting, two speakers asked the council for different kinds of local attention: one sought business input on design standards and clarity on fees, the other urged more action on homelessness.
Troy Sherburn, speaking on behalf of the Blue Ridge Business Association, praised recent streamlining of occupational tax licensing and urged the council to keep processes clear so business owners can plan. He asked that the business community have a seat on any proposed architectural design committee so design standards are predictable and practical. "We encourage that any design standards be clear, predictable, and practical to be able to apply," Sherburn said.
Resident Liz Nicholas said she has lived in Blue Ridge and Fannin County since 2003 and is concerned about rapid development, visible homelessness and trash. She told the council she has spoken with people experiencing homelessness who said they were dropped off from Columbus, Atlanta, Winder and Decatur. "It's easier to be homeless here in Blue Ridge than it is in Atlanta," Nicholas said, adding that local nonprofits, churches and the senior center are providing aid but that resources appear inadequate.
Council members asked Nicholas to leave contact information with the clerk so staff can follow up. The council did not record a formal response or new program funding during public comment.
What happens next: Council offered to continue the conversation with Nicholas after the meeting and did not take formal action during the public-comment period.
