Commissioners approve amendment giving board limited discretion over CDS fee timing

Elbert County commissioners approved an amendment to the Community Development Services (CDS) development-review fee schedule that lets the board, in limited circumstances, alter the timing of when fees are due. The board moved the matter from discussion to action and passed the amendment by voice vote.

County attorney Lance explained the amendment is narrow: the underlying fee amounts and types remain unchanged, but the board would have discretion to agree to an alternate payment schedule “when the board deems it appropriate.” Commissioner McDaniel moved the item and the motion carried on an all-aye voice vote.

The change does not mandate any payment schedule changes; staff said it is intended to give flexibility when applicants or particular situations warrant an alternative timetable. No members requested additional conditions or follow-up reporting at the time of the vote. The board will implement the revised policy language as adopted and staff will reflect the change in the official fee schedule.