Board schedules public hearing on potential revocation of helipad permit after flight-path citations

Planning staff presented a county-initiated review of a helipad special-use permit tied to property at 2700 Cox Road and told commissioners the county is considering revocation under the permit's enforcement clause (condition 14).

Mr. Traver summarized two incidents that triggered citations: on Oct. 22, 2023 a helicopter landed in an alternate location about 170–180 feet from a property line and outside approved hours; the marshal's office later issued a citation noting violations of conditions including the single-helipad requirement and distance-to-property-line restrictions. "Upon further investigation, Cherokee County solicitor general issued a 5 count accusation with respect to the October incident," Mr. Traver said. He also described a Jan. 20, 2024 incident that led to a separate citation and a one-count accusation tied to deviation from the approved flight path.

The staff presentation cited the original resolution approving two special-use permits (special event facility and non‑scheduled chartered air transportation), and read condition language limiting trips per 12-month period and restricting flight paths and hours. Mr. Traver noted Mr. Rocky Morris is the property and business owner (filed case), and that the settlement/agreement materials and exhibits are attached to the staff packet.

The transcript records that Mr. Morris (in court filings) acknowledged revocation could be an appropriate remedy but argued in state court that deviations by a third party are beyond his control; staff said revocation proceedings are available under the SUP condition and the Georgia Zoning Procedures Law. The board scheduled a public hearing to receive comment and then take action consistent with quasi‑judicial zoning procedures.