The developers of a large apartment complex planned for Hog Mountain Road in Flowery Branch have received pushback from community members for months, but no one showed up for a final public hearing on a rezoning vote Thursday night.
Flowery Branch City Council voted unanimously to approve the rezoning request that allows Woodfield Development to construct a 334-unit apartment complex on Hog Mountain Road next to Flowery Branch High School.
Prior to the final vote, Councilman Joe Anglin - who said two weeks ago he could still be swayed to vote against the project - asked for an amendment to the conditions placed on the project. Anglin said he wanted council members to have final approval of design plans for the development, rather than leaving that decision solely to the city's Community Development staff. Anglin also asked for clarification on the length of lease agreements for tenants before casting his vote in favor of the project.
Following the meeting, Woodfield Development partner Patrick Kassin acknowledged the process for approval had been lengthy, but he said he was encouraged by community participation. The company held three open houses so area residents could ask questions about the project.
"It's not typical, but it's okay," Kassin said. "I think what we really do appreciate is the public engagement, which ultimately results in a better project."
Kassin said there's still plenty of work to do before the company can begin actual construction on the complex.
"We think we'll be through with our drawings and permit issuings by Q2 of next year and would start around that same time - or shortly thereafter - with what's called a land disturbance permit," Kassin said.
While the bulk of the 32+-acre property will be used for the apartment complex and amenities, a nearly three-acre outparcel that fronts Hog Mountain Road will be used for commercial business.
