Henry leaders oppose bills stripping municipal oversight of house design

Henry Commissioners on Tuesday opposed two Georgia legislative bills that the south metro community’s leaders say would strip their  ability to control housing designs.

Henry Commissioners on Tuesday opposed two Georgia legislative bills that the south metro community’s leaders say would strip their ability to control housing designs.

The Henry County Commission on Tuesday formally opposed legislation making its way through the Georgia Legislature that opponents say strips control over building design from municipalities. 

Commissioners voted unanimously in favor a resolution opposing Senate Bill 172 and House Bill 302, which seek to amend state code that allows local governments to create and regulate ordinances on houses. That can include regulations on color, architectural elements or types of building materials used like vinyl siding or brick.

“I’m appalled that this would even be considered,” Commissioner Gary Barham said at Tuesday’s commission meeting.

Henry Commission Chairwoman June Wood agreed, saying the bills “totally violate home rule.”

The legislation has drawn the ire of city and county leaders across metro Atlanta, including those in Dunwoody, South Fulton and Cobb County. Neighborhood Associations in Sandy Springs and Dunwoody also have spoken out against the legislation.