AJC > NorthSide > Blog > Archives > 2006 > October > 10 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USHow should Milton deal with developers?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Unlike Sandy Springs and even Johns Creek, the new city of Milton is still semi-rural with large lot sizes and a number of working horse farms.
When the new city government takes office in December, how strictly should they regulate development? Commercial properties bring the possibility of higher tax revenues, but it might change the character of the area. If you were the new mayor, what approach would you adopt for land use and zoning?
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Comments
By Mark
October 10, 2006 03:12 PM | Link to this
We moved to the rural area of Milton because of the character; large lots, very little commercial development and streets that are still easy to navigate. It will be very important for the new Mayor of Milton, along with the soon-to-be elected city council, to balance the growth in this area. The people who live here have shown in the past that they are willing to fight large commercial development. Smart development is okay, but the typical rampant retail, office and other uses that typicy metro Atlanta will ruin the charm and appeal of Milton. I think the Mayor and Council need to make it as difficult as possible for developers to have free reign over their projects. I for one would rather pay more in city tax to make up for the lack of large scale commercial development.
By bellamomma
October 10, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this
I loved living in Milton (before it was Milton) but was heart broken at all the growth on a recent visit. I grew up there and hate seeing all the beautiful old farms and land being turned into mac mansion subdivisions. Milton needs to be very select about their land and limit the number of houses and size of those house in these neighborhoods. We don’t need more crooked creeks in that area. it is perfect the way it is. close to stores and shops but still with a “country living”.
By Colt
October 13, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this
How can the city of Milton NOT maximize commercial development (which is higher in revenue and has lower cost of services than residential) AND meet its budget in the future without raising taxes (which it can not do per the legal limits of the referendum)? My prediction is that the new city will be forced to maximize development in order to balance the books.
By Ron
October 14, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this
Mark’s October 10 post favoring smart growth is right on target. Having some conveniences like the Publix development on Birmingham Road makes sense, however the mayor and council need to be mindful about rezoning requests that would dramatically alter the “rural” appeal of the Milton area. Both agriculture and/or forest preservation or retention areas are important tools in curbing unnecessary retail/commercial growth.