The Spalding County Planning Commission has postponed a decision on a proposed ordinance that would permit commercial RV campgrounds in AR-1 zoning for 90 days to gather additional information. 

The decision followed public feedback from 19 residents opposing the measure during the commission’s January 28 meeting, as reported by the Griffin Daily News.

This delay comes as two newly appointed members, Doug Hardwick and Bill Bryant, joined the commission, replacing John Youmans and Nick Allen. B. Frank Harris was reappointed, while Marylouise Upshaw and Bruce Ballard were elected chair and vice-chair, respectively.

The ordinance proposal originated from a request submitted last September by an attorney representing landowners with a 54.88-acre parcel near W. Ellis Road, Wildcat Creek, and the Flint River. 

While the request for a special exception was later withdrawn, Spalding County Community Development Director David Allen proceeded with drafting an ordinance that would define and regulate campground resorts.

Under the proposed ordinance, a resort campground would be defined as a recreational facility designed for temporary accommodations, including RVs and tents, for outdoor recreation. 

The draft outlines specific conditions, including a minimum parcel size of 50 acres, a limit of two campsites per acre, and a requirement that 60% of the total acreage remains in a natural state. 

Additionally, campsites would need to be set back 200 feet from public roadways and 50 feet from adjacent residences, with a maximum stay of 16 days per camper and on-site wastewater management.

Allen emphasized that without an official definition for “resort campground” in the zoning code, these facilities would not be permitted in any zoning district.

Despite not reapplying for the special exception, the original applicants have continued to promote their proposed Wildcat RV Resort, launching a website advertising amenities and accepting campsite reservations. 

The site also includes a petition for public support. Meanwhile, opposition efforts have emerged, including an opposing website and yard signs reading “No RV Resort on the Flint.”

The outcome of the ordinance’s consideration could have implications for future campground development in Spalding County. 

Business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector may find it useful to monitor this process, as zoning regulations can significantly impact site selection, operational restrictions, and long-term investment strategies.