Board approves several PUD revisions and variances; neighbor raises tree and setback concerns

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners approved several land‑use actions on July 7, including variances, major PUD revisions and a change in conditional‑use restrictions; at least one contested item drew extended public comment from nearby homeowners concerned about tree damage and privacy.

Staff presented a signage variance for a new Applebee’s at the gateway explaining the requested sign areas exceeded code and that planning recommended approval with conditions; the board approved the variance. Commissioners also considered multiple PUD revision requests to reduce build lines and setbacks to permit pool construction and to establish development standards for community pool areas. For one proposal seeking to reduce a rear setback from 10 feet to 2 feet, resident Larry Carter (speaker 17) said an arborist’s report shows the pool excavation would harm critical root zones, killing large trees within one to three years; he requested denial or further evaluation. County staff and the county attorney explained that civil remedies and injunctions exist if damage occurs, and staff noted plans may include retaining walls and that full construction plans were not in the packet.

Tripp Nanny (speaker 14) representing the Jones Creek pool project said the HOA and planning commission had worked on the design, that the facility needs replacement for ADA and pump‑room reasons, and that the applicant expects construction to start in September with occupancy before April. Neighbor John Edry (speaker 13) said construction will not be literally two feet from his home and asked for assurances about fences and buffers; staff confirmed fences and buffers must be in place before certificates of occupancy. The board approved the Jones Creek PUD revision and several other PUD/variance items; motions carried with no recorded roll calls except where noted.