In a recent government meeting, officials presented a comprehensive analysis of housing permits and potential population growth in Cherokee County. The data, spanning from 2013 to 2024, highlighted significant trends in residential construction across various jurisdictions, including unincorporated areas and cities such as Ball Ground, Canton, Holly Springs, and Woodstock.

The report revealed that the highest number of approved permits for single-family detached homes occurred in 2017, with 1,084 permits issued. In contrast, 2022 saw a peak in single-family attached units at 382 permits, while 2023 recorded the most apartment unit approvals at 522. The total valuation of construction projects also peaked in 2023, with single-family detached homes valued at $459 million.

A detailed breakdown of permits per square mile indicated that Holly Springs had the highest density at 409 permits, followed by Canton at 182 and Woodstock at 285. This statistic underscores the varying levels of development across the county.

Additionally, officials presented a housing inventory showing a significant number of approved but unconstructed residential units. Currently, there are 5,903 single-family units and 1,489 multifamily units awaiting construction. The total number of approved units across Cherokee County stands at 7,392, with a notable mention of the Hightower development, which has remained undeveloped since the late 1980s.

The potential impact of these unconstructed units on population growth was also discussed. If all single-family units were built, the county could see an estimated population increase of 23,245 residents, while multifamily units could add approximately 3,550 residents. Overall, the projected population increase for Cherokee County could reach 413,906 if all approved units were constructed.

This meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges and opportunities in managing growth and development in Cherokee County, emphasizing the need for strategic planning to accommodate future population increases.