BOC Approves Youth Lodge in Crystal Cove Shores

A controversial zoning issue that simmered for more than four years was resolved Thursday when Forsyth County commissioners approved a conditional use permit for a faith-based youth lodge in Crystal Cove Shores subdivision.

The vote was 4-0. District 1 Commissioner Pete Amos, who owns property nearby, recused himself.

As they have done in past meetings, neighbors of the proposed facility, raised objections ranging from safety issues to traffic concerns to declining property values.

But attorney Ethan Underwood, made an impassioned plea on behalf of the group that he said is trying to lend a helping hand to troubled youth in the community and to break the cycle of dysfunction that exists in some homes.

"All we're asking you to do is what the Planning Commission has said is the right thing to do," Underwood said. "We're asking you to be brave and do the right thing."

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the application with certain conditions that were adopted by commissioners. The facility must be constructed to have a residential appearance and may not be used as a church or a treatment facility for drug or alcohol dependence. Operating hours are limited to 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

In other business, Matthew Hicks of the Association County Commissioners Georgia presented Rep. Mark Hamilton (R-Cumming, District 23) with the ACCG's Legislative Service Award for his sponsorship of House Bill 92, which shortens the duration of Georgia's in person, early voting period from 45 to 21 days.

Hicks noted the vast majority of voters cast their ballot within 21 days of the election and that leaving the voting places open for a longer period of time is very costly.

HB 92 also provides an increased opportunity to vote early for those who normally work week days because it mandates that polls be open the second Saturday prior to an election.

The board also approved an amendment to the county's Ethics Ordinance that states that in the event an ethics complaint is brought against a county official or employee arising out of their official duties is deemed a wrongful use of the ordinance or is dismissed, they are entitled to be reimbursed reasonable attorney's fees up to $10,000 by the county.