EDITORIAL: Attend Tuesday’s public hearing on Circle K and have a say

Published 4:03 pm Friday, December 6, 2024

A renewed proposal to build a convenience store at one of Milledgeville’s busiest intersections is slated to come before City Council Tuesday night.

The request to construct a Circle K at 2345 N. Columbia St., at the site of the former BB&T bank branch at the intersection of North Columbia and Dunlap Road, was twice rejected by the city Planning and Zoning Commission but City Council will have the last say.

The P&Z voted 3-2 against the first request last March. Then a second request fared worse, falling in a 4-1 vote earlier this fall.

Now, City Council will decide.

A public hearing is on next week’s city council meeting agenda to decide on approval of the special use ordinance for the convenience store and gas station.

Several residents have already spoken out against the proposed construction, voicing concerns about traffic access and flow at the busy intersection. Five residents spoke against the plan last month.

Those in support of and against the proposal should come and listen Tuesday to the details before council decides, particularly residents who live near the intersection. Residents should also reach out to their council representative beforehand and ask questions about the proposal if they have concerns. While the P&Z is an advisory board, council has the final say as to whether or not the special use application will be granted. In the most recent iteration of the proposal, company officials, through their attorney agreed to pay for a turn lane at the site if the special use application was granted. Perhaps residents have additional questions about that idea as well. They should ask and share their concerns.

Next week’s public hearing will weigh the balance of business progression and the needs and concerns of residents.

Residents are urged to attend to listen and have their say Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall.