Effingham County Commissioners to vote on proposed subdivision that would see 504 homes

A proposed development in Effingham County is causing great concern among residents and environmentalists.

The development, which is slated to be voted on during tonight’s commissioner meeting in Effingham County, would rezone 247 acres from AR-1 (Agriculture Residential 1) to PD-R (Planned Residential Development). At full build out, the development would have 504 homes.

According to the development of regional impact report, much of the development is covered in wetlands and is designated flood zone A, meaning there is a high risk of flooding.

Ben Kirsch, legal director for the Ogeechee Riverkeeper, submitted comments to the Coastal Regional Commission of Georgia for the DRI report saying, “Flooding will be a concern for structures built on this property’s floodplains.”

He goes on to say the flood risk is greater than what the 100-year flood map suggests.

“While the “100-year” flood zone name implies that floods will only occur once every 100 years, this obscures the actual risk,” said Kirsch. “Over 30 years, the actual flood risk is 26% – a more than 1 in 4 chance for properties in the 100-year floodplain. This creates risk and finance pressure for all future property owners who may face significant flood damage and subsequent increases in insurance rates.”

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Brittany Kochar traded in the big city in Denver, Co. for a slower pace of life in Guyton. She, her husband and children enjoy their 5-acre lot with their chickens and goats.

But a proposed subdivision may put her dreams of living a country lifestyle in jeopardy.

“Seeing these developments pop up defeats the purpose of living in a small town,” said Kochar. “There is no infrastructure here to support the homes. That’s a huge safety concern.”

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Kochar said she is not against growth but would prefer to see more small businesses than residential.

“I understand growth happens because that is how the city makes money but that is the wrong kind of growth,” said Kochar. “There are other ways to build a community without these neighborhoods. When people want to move to the country, they are doing that to have land and get away. Its ruining this whole area.”

According to the DRI report, the estimated value at full build out is $200,000,000. Joshua Yellin of Hunter McLean, who is listed as the agent for property owner Cassie Hinely, did not respond to our request for comment.

Latrice Williams is a general assignment reporter covering Bryan and Effingham County. She can be reached at lwilliams6@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: County commissioners in Effingham County to vote on subdivision