Impact fee amendment called 'useless'

GAINESVILLE - Hall County Commissioners Thursday narrowly passed an amendment to the county's impact fee ordinance over objections from Commissioner Craig Lutz who said it was useless and wanted it voted down or at least tabled.

Homebuilders wanted a moratorium on the fees; the amendment allows builders to pay the fees when they apply for a building permit or when it's time to get a certificate of occupancy.

"They've all said that it's a useless piece of legislation...it does not help them in any way," Lutz said. "Deferring money out to the C.O. (Certificate of Occupancy) actually could jeopardize getting a C.O. if they're trying to pull in a home to build contract."

Lutz also said cities could continue collecting fees when builders apply for permits unless they accept the county's ordinance change. The vote was 3-2, with Scott Gibbs also opposed; Chairman Tom Oliver, Billy Powell and Ashley Bell voted yes.