Planners defer vote on project

Westlake residents have one month to plan their attack.

Developers planning to build an upscale apartment complex on property adjacent to the private golf course community asked members of the Columbia County Planning Commission for a month to "flesh out" their designs for the project.

"We feel we have a quality product," said Bill Coleman, an attorney representing Hathaway Development Co. "If our plans are looked at and judged objectively, I think you'll agree this development will fill a need."

But Planning Commission Chairman Steve Brown told Coleman not to get his hopes up. The board has not looked favorably on apartment developments built near less-intensive residential developments.

"I hope you consider that before your client (spends) too much money," Brown said.

Hathaway owns one other apartment complex in Columbia County - Walden Glen on Belair Road. Coleman said the planned development for 24.62 acres on Furys Ferry Road will be upscale, filling a niche in the area.

"Not everyone can afford a half-million dollar house," Coleman said. "This will be perfect for teachers, nurses or young couples."

Hathaway officials had asked the county to rezone the property for apartments. On Dec. 6 - when the issue is scheduled to come back before planners - Hathaway officials will ask for a Planned Unit Development, which would still allow for the apartments.

Even though the request was not formally considered by the commission last week, more than 60 Westlake residents filled the Evans Government Center auditorium. After commissioners unanimously agreed to table the issue for one month, the residents left the meeting.