Stephens Co. Commission Approves Request for Construction of Poultry Houses

The Stephens County Commission approved a conditional use request for the construction of new poultry houses on properties on Davis and Yow mill roads at yesterday’s meeting.

The decision was 4-1, but even those who voted for approval were concerned for the opposing citizens. County Commissioner Dean Scarbrough said that because the property is considered agriculture intensive in the current land use ordinance, he couldn’t oppose it.

“In both of these instances, there is no zoning change needed. It’s already AI. There’s no variance needed because the setbacks are clearly met,” said Scarbrough. “Based on our land use plan that’s in place, I don’t see any way that I can oppose this project. I’ve fought with this for this very reason, but based on our land use plan, these are in the appropriate area.”

Commissioner Stanley London was opposed to the request, saying that he doesn’t think it’s fair to the surrounding neighborhood.

“I have no issues with the poultry industry or the farming industry whatsoever, but I just ask you all to think about if you would like to have these saturated in your neighborhood,” said Stanley. “We do have some provisions in the ordinance as far as looking at the existing neighborhood and it says in the ordinance it should weigh heavily. I don’t want to be told there’s nothing we can do but we need to control our neighborhoods for the people that have lived there all their lives.”

The approval for these poultry houses is conditional and Commissioner Debbie Whitlock said that the owners of the poultry houses will be considerate of the surrounding community.

“If this is passed and you get your chicken houses then I implore you that you are going to take care of those houses,” said Whitlock. “That you are going to look out for your neighbors, for our water and that you keep a very close eye on those ammonia levels. And to do everything you can to protect your neighbors and yourself and your own family.”

In addition to the approval of the request, the commission approved a 90- day moratorium that will allow them to amend the language in the current zoning ordinance.

The moratorium will also put a stop to the approval of any poultry operation until the amendments are made. County Attorney Brian Ranck said that he will have the moratorium document complete by the next commission meeting.