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Johns Creek panel approves Maseya Lutheran Church expansion and accessory pre‑K with conditions
Summary
The Planning Commission approved special‑use permits and a concurrent variance to allow a 2,515 sq ft church addition and an accessory pre‑K at 4765 Kimball Bridge Road, contingent on stormwater and land‑disturbance review; the vote was 5–0.
The Johns Creek Planning Commission on Nov. 4 approved special‑use permits and a concurrent variance enabling Maseya Lutheran Church to add a 2,515‑square‑foot building addition and operate an accessory pre‑K at 4765 Kimball Bridge Road.
Staff planning and zoning manager Ruchi Agarwal told commissioners the 3.95‑acre site would expand instructional space in three phases: interior alterations to add an initial pre‑K classroom, a second phase adding classrooms and seats (up to 60 pre‑K students in total), and a Phase 3 addition of 2,515 square feet plus an 840‑square‑foot outdoor play area. Agarwal said the property already has 116 parking spaces (more than the 104 required) and estimated the daycare would add about 246 daily vehicle trips (47 during morning and evening peak hours). She recommended approval with conditions, including compliance with the city’s runoff‑reduction requirements when land disturbance occurs.
Pastor Harmon Lewis, representing Maseya Lutheran Church, said the congregation plans to repurpose existing Sunday‑school classrooms into a half‑day pre‑K to meet local demand and pursue licensing and accreditation. “What we’re asking is to open a preschool,” Pastor Harmon Lewis said, adding the church has interviewed staff and intends a high‑quality program.
Commissioners questioned the existing playground and fence that partly encroach into the city’s 50‑foot undisturbed buffer. Staff said the fence would encroach a maximum of 10 linear feet but that at least 40 feet of undisturbed buffer would be retained; the fence also must meet state daycare fencing rules. On stormwater, staff said Phases 1 and 2 are interior work only, but Phase 3 would trigger land‑disturbance permitting and runoff‑reduction measures the applicant must show to the land development manager before construction.
Commissioner Horton moved to approve the special‑use permits and variance with staff conditions; Commissioner Katzen seconded. The commission voted unanimously to approve the measure, 5–0.
Staff notified applicants that the City Council meets Nov. 18; staff also reminded the applicant that required LDP approvals and specific stormwater plans will be enforced at the permit stage.
