CORNELIA — The Cornelia City Commission voted unanimously Tuesday to post an annexation ordinance for public comment that would bring roughly 225 acres along Highway 365 South into the city limits.
The request, submitted by Cook Construction and Real Estate, covers land between Level Grove Road and Duncan Bridge Road and seeks multiple zoning designations, including a planned unit development with 3,700-square-foot residential lots, agriculture, and highway business with limited industrial uses.
City Manager Donald Anderson Jr. said the vote does not finalize the annexation.
“This is a request by Cook Construction Real Estate to annex approximately 224.6 acres,” Anderson said. “I just want to point out that this is not to officially approve an annexation. It will be to post an annexation ordinance, if you so choose.”
Mayor John Borrow opened the public hearing by outlining the rules and encouraging residents to continue sharing feedback before the commission’s next meeting.
“If you’ve got feedback, this is what we’re here for tonight,” Borrow said. “But if you also have feedback and you don’t want to get up and talk, then you’ve got the next month or so to tell us your thoughts and feelings about it.”
Cook Construction makes the case for annexation
Attorney Vince Fitzgerald, representing Cook Construction, presented the proposed development, which he described as the Red Apple Innovation Corridor. He said the project would align with Cornelia’s long-term goals for the Highway 365 corridor and provide economic growth, jobs, and new housing options.
“We believe it’s going to be consistently beneficial to the city of Cornelia, and just as importantly, it realizes the city’s long-term goals for that 365 corridor,” Fitzgerald said.
Fitzgerald said the development would broaden the tax base, add affordable housing, and complement the city’s participation in Georgia Power’s Retail Ready pilot program.
Some Residents Oppose
Resident Tracy River spoke in opposition, arguing that growth has already strained Cornelia’s infrastructure.
“Residents were correct when they stated the infrastructure is inadequate,” River said. “Adding hundreds of vehicles and just as many students may not be the straw that breaks the camel’s back, but it will continue to increase the misery of residents who never really seem to have a say.”
The commission’s unanimous vote posts the annexation ordinance for public comment until its next meeting on Dec. 2, when one additional public hearing will be held before a potential final vote.
