Under the bright lights of the Henry County Zoning Advisory Board meeting, community members gathered to voice their concerns and aspirations for local development. Among them was Holly Lawton, a resident of Stockbridge, who passionately addressed the board about the rising property values in her neighborhood and the importance of thoughtful zoning decisions.

Lawton highlighted the recent sales of homes in her subdivision, with prices soaring from $850,000 to nearly $1 million. She presented compelling evidence of the market's strength, showcasing pending sales that reflect a growing demand for upscale housing. “This is a pending sale listed at $880,000,” she noted, pointing to a slide that illustrated the trend. “And there are other homes near our community that are also selling at higher values.”

However, Lawton's message extended beyond mere statistics. She expressed a deep concern that the zoning decisions made by the board could impact the character of their community. “We implore you, please don't send the message that our community could be a dumping ground for personal care homes and group homes,” she urged, emphasizing the desire for development that mirrors the quality seen in other parts of the county.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that residents like Lawton are not just interested in property values; they are invested in the future of their community. They seek a balance between growth and maintaining the integrity of their neighborhoods. Lawton concluded her remarks with a call for equitable development, hoping for the same opportunities in the northern parts of the county that are being realized in the south.

The discussions at the Zoning Advisory Board meeting reflect a community at a crossroads, eager to shape its identity while navigating the complexities of growth and development. As the board considers these voices, the implications of their decisions will resonate throughout Henry County for years to come.