Some developers express concerns about Whitfield County stormwater ordinance
May 16—Some developers expressed concerns about the impact of Whitfield County's stormwater ordinance on home construction at Monday's meeting of the county Board of Commissioners.
One of the major concerns expressed is whether the rules that apply to large subdivisions should also apply to developments of just a few houses.
"It's going on the homeowners," said developer Bryan Spence. "That's where it goes every time."
Spence said an entry-level house in Whitfield County is now $230,000 to $240,000. He said the stormwater requirements add $5,000 to $6,000 per house.
Brandon Harrison said the rules are not as strict in neighboring counties.
"I'm trying to wrap my mind about what's the difference," he said. "I'm just trying to figure out what it is (that is) so complicated, why is it so unknown when we get out and buy something."
The commissioners said the county stormwater ordinance has to meet the requirements set out by the state. They said they do not want to go beyond that and impose unnecessary regulatory costs on developers of any size.
"The commissioners only want to apply these at the minimum required by state regulations and only when appropriate, so we will look to get clarification," said board Chairman Jevin Jensen.
County Administrator Robert Sivick said he and other county staff enforce county ordinances and other laws.
"The county's stormwater and erosion control ordinances mirror the city of Dalton's," he said. "County staff is aware a few people are objecting to either the county's ordinances or their enforcement. The Board of Commissioners, pursuant to its function as Whitfield County's governing body, directed staff to provide the board information and advice regarding the matter. County staff is presently doing so. Any changes in stormwater and erosion control ordinances would have to be enacted by the Board of Commissioners."
