City Council Approves Rezoning Near Forsyth for Arkan Homes Development, Addressing Local Residents' Concerns

The City Council has approved a conditional rezoning request for a development near the Forsyth County line. This approval permits Arkan Homes to build 13 single-family homes on a 3.133-acre property on Bethany Bend, between Spring View Drive and the Milton Montessori School. The property is in a district suitable for high-density residential development, surrounded by townhouses, apartments, and land approved for schools and senior living facilities.

The rezoning was uncontested, although two residents from a nearby townhouse community expressed concerns. They were not opposed to the new residences, but to the proposed paved alleys behind the new buildings near their properties. They argued this would result in three roads and decrease the natural buffer between the two developments.

Community Development Director Bob Buscemi defended the alley design, saying it would match the aesthetic of downtown Milton. He also mentioned that front entry garages would make garage doors 80% of the front façade. In response to the residents' concerns, the City Council agreed to narrow the alleys from 18 feet to 12 feet and to widen the natural landscape buffer from 3 feet to 8 feet.

An attorney for Arkan Homes agreed to these changes, which were included in the approved rezoning item. The council's decision followed a thorough discussion and consideration of the residents' concerns.

In other council news, many people opposed a request for an alcohol license for D’Rose Vintners, a proposed winery on Blakmaral Lane. Most opposition came from Providence Plantation residents, who raised safety concerns about increased traffic and potential drunk drivers. This item was postponed until the City Council’s March 4 meeting. The council also declared February 16 as Arbor Day in Milton and approved a comprehensive Consent Agenda.

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