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Commission recommends variances for Hahira Gateway subdivision, finding hardship self-imposed contested
Summary
The commission recommended approval, 6-3, of variance requests for lot‑width and access standards in a proposed ~6-acre Hahira subdivision near Exit 29, despite staff noting alternatives (hammerhead layout or acquiring 10 feet) could avoid variances and describing the hardship as self‑imposed. Supporters said parcel access and design constraints motivated the request.
Williams Investment Company sought variances to Hahira Subdivision Regulations (Section 5-6.1) and Hahira Zoning Ordinance lot-width requirements for a proposed commercial subdivision near I-75 Exit 29. Matt Martin presented the application and staff explained Tract #5 (planned for a multi-story hotel) would show a 50-foot lot width where the code requires 60 feet; staff noted a previous hammerhead layout or acquiring an extra ten feet from adjacent city-owned property would avoid the need for variances and characterized the hardship as self-imposed.
Supporters including Mike Williams and Clayton Milligan said parcels have means of ingress/egress and that design choices aim to preserve open space and meet developer objectives; Mr. Williams said the ownership transaction to acquire city property was under consideration. Commissioners debated the tradeoffs; the motion to recommend approval with conditions carried 6-3 (Vice‑Chair James Miller, Commissioner John McCall, and Commissioner Tommy Willis opposed).
Next steps: the advisory recommendation will go to Hahira City Council for final action; if the city transaction proceeds, the variances may become unnecessary.
