Snellville council approves special-use permit for Parkview Christian School at Westside Baptist

The Snellville City Council on July 27 approved ordinance 2026-05, granting a special-use permit for Parkview Christian School to operate a K–8 private school at the Westside Baptist Church campus at 2925 Main Street West.

Planning Director Jason Thompson told the council the existing school building was originally constructed for institutional use and that the 4.54-acre site is slightly under the 5-acre minimum, prompting a requested variance. He recommended approval with the variances recorded in ordinance 2026-05. "The intent and the use of the property are 100% compliant with the existing campus and the adjoining properties," Thompson said during his presentation.

Shane Swayze, principal of Parkview Christian School, described the school’s history and operations and said the institution currently estimates enrollment at about 86 students with a maximum capacity of 130 and a staff of up to 20. "We are intentionally small," Swayze said, adding the school would use staggered dismissal times and coordinate with the Parks Department on outdoor activities.

A resident speaker, Tricia Rollins, supported the application, calling it a "win-win" and noting site improvements to the playground. Council moved to approve the ordinance with the listed conditions; the motion passed by voice/hand vote 6–0.

The council recorded conditions in ordinance 2026-05; the applicant and city staff will follow up on required site and use standards during permitting and inspection phases.