The Statesboro City Council met on April 15, 2025, for a regular session that featured a standout presentation from the Statesboro Youth Council, a first reading of proposed Unified Development Code (UDC) amendments, and several planning and zoning actions. The evening concluded with city manager comments focused on state recognition, housing efforts, and upcoming budget planning.
Youth Council Presents on Community Impact and Civic Engagement
The meeting began with a heartfelt and energetic presentation from the Statesboro Youth Council, showcasing the outcomes of their recent community projects and educational trips.
Junior Mayor Jameson Hughes led the presentation, highlighting the completion of their placemaking grant project on the Willie McTell Trail. Despite setbacks from hurricanes, cold weather, and scheduling conflicts, the Youth Council replaced damaged benches, installed flower planters and pavers, and built a life-size chess park. Photos showed members sanding, installing benches, and engaging in trail restoration. Hughes shared that feedback from the public has already been positive, and the improved section is safer and more inviting.
Council also heard from Grace Huff-Colbert, Eden Chavers, and John Beasley, who spoke about their experiences at the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) Youth Leadership Conference and a spring trip to Washington, D.C. They discussed their engagement in workshops, visits to national landmarks, team-building activities, and youth leadership sessions. They reflected on how these experiences shaped their understanding of civic responsibility and leadership.
The group expressed plans to maintain the McTell Trail through regular workdays and proposed additions like signage, murals, and cameras. They ended by thanking Dr. LaSara Mitchell, city staff, and especially Councilmember Shari Barr for their support. A final slide read, “Your vote is not going without notice, you are doing an amazing job and continue to enrich and allow the youth of Statesboro to have these experiences.”
Zoning Request Denied for Duplex in Single-Family Area
Planning and Zoning Director Kathy Field presented a request to rezone a .32-acre vacant lot at Garfield Street and Donnie Simmons Way to allow a duplex. Staff recommended denial, citing incompatibility with the surrounding R-15 single-family neighborhood. Despite a prior Planning Commission recommendation for approval, the council unanimously voted to deny the request, concerned about setting a precedent for higher-density infill in established single-family neighborhoods.
First Reading of Unified Development Code Amendments Sparks Debate
The first reading of a multifaceted UDC amendment drew significant discussion. Key proposals included:
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Allowing tiny homes (400–749 sq ft) in medium- and high-density residential developments with a special use permit
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Reducing non-residential space in Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) over 100 acres from 20% to 10%
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Requiring sprinkler systems in townhome and apartment buildings with more than two units
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Counting outdoor dining toward amenity requirements for restaurants
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Removing outdated mobile home language and correcting scrivener’s errors
The fire code provision generated the most debate. Developers present at the meeting stated that the proposed sprinkler mandate would impose an uncommon and potentially burdensome cost on projects, particularly those already entitled or in development. They noted that such a requirement is rare across Southeast Georgia municipalities and could deter investment.
In contrast, Fire Chief Tim Grams explained that the measure is a proactive, locally tailored safety initiative. He emphasized that many townhomes are effectively serving as apartments for college students, who are statistically at higher risk in fire situations. Grams pointed out that sprinkler systems are already required for true apartment complexes and that this step simply closes a safety gap in buildings used similarly.
Additional council discussion focused on clarification around tiny home language and amenity space requirements for dining establishments. Some councilmembers sought further explanation on how accessory dwelling units and backyard homes might be treated under the new language.
Given the complexity of the amendment and the range of questions raised, council opted to take no action at this meeting. The ordinance will be brought back for review and discussion at a work session in May, with possible revisions before a future first reading and vote.
Phase 3 Revisions Approved for Townhome Development on Burkhalter Road
Council approved revisions to Phase 3 of a residential development at 6922 Burkhalter Road. The changes reduce the total units from 214 townhomes to 139 units, consisting of 77 townhomes and 62 single-family homes. Planning staff and the Planning Commission supported the revision, citing improved balance and compatibility with the neighborhood.
City Manager Comments – Housing, All-America City Recognition, and Budget Planning
City Manager Charles Penny addressed several matters during his comments. He acknowledged a letter sent by the mayor to Governor Brian Kemp and Speaker Jon Burns, thanking them for their support of the Statesboro community.
He clarified confusion around the Vault Apartments, stating the city did not order evictions but requested a remediation plan after an engineer’s safety report. The report was independently submitted by the structural engineer. Penny noted that the owners interpreted the request as an eviction, but community organizations and the city responded quickly to help tenants find new housing and financial support.
Penny also announced that Statesboro is a finalist for the All-America City Award. He credited Dr. Candice Bodkin from Georgia Southern University for assembling the application, which highlighted programs such as Youth Connect, Village Builders, the Youth Council, and civic board engagement. A city delegation will travel to Denver in June to present their case to the National Civic League.
He concluded by asking councilmembers to reserve May 13 at 2 p.m. for the first FY 2026 budget work session.
Other Notable Items
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Councilmember Shari Barr announced several upcoming events:
-Downtown Live concert featuring The Breakfast Club on April 17 at 7 p.m.
-ArtsFest at Sweetheart Circle on April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Don Devine, a licensed massage therapist and owner of Devine Hands Therapeutic Bodywork LLC, returned to thank the mayor and council for hearing his concerns during a previous meeting. Devine mentioned that he had followed up with an email to council members and the city manager and offered to speak further with anyone after the meeting
Here is the meeting agenda
Continue reading for the in depth coverage
1. Call to Order
2. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
3. Recognitions/Public Presentations
A) Presentation by Statesboro Youth Council
The Statesboro Youth Council delivered a powerful and heartfelt presentation during Tuesday’s City Council meeting, detailing the completion of their placemaking grant project on the Willie McTell Trail. Junior Mayor Jamersyn Hughes led the presentation, highlighting the group’s dedication to revitalizing a once-neglected section of the trail and transforming it into a safer, more inviting space for community members of all ages.
The project included replacing unsafe benches, installing new flower planters and pavers, and constructing a life-sized outdoor chess park. Hughes described how the vision came to life despite a variety of obstacles, including severe weather events, scheduling conflicts, and complications communicating with city departments. Slides presented to council members elaborated further, citing challenges such as the impact of Hurricanes Debby and Helene, frigid conditions during "snow week," and difficulties coordinating cleanup around a homeless population that had taken refuge along the trail. Despite these setbacks, the Youth Council’s determination prevailed.
Photos shared during the meeting showcased trail upgrades, including images of youth members sanding, laying foundation materials, and installing new seating. Hughes noted that the project has already drawn positive community feedback and has made the trail safer and more beautiful.
Council also heard from Youth Council members Grace Huff-Colbert, Eden Chavers, and John Beasley, who presented recaps of two major educational experiences: the Georgia Municipal Association Youth Leadership Conference and a spring trip to Washington, D.C. These events exposed members to civic processes, local and state leadership, child advocacy through UNICEF workshops, and the history of U.S. democracy. From building Lego homes in team-building exercises to hearing from Georgia’s youngest elected officials, the students reflected on their growth and new civic insights.
Looking forward, the Youth Council said they plan to maintain the McTell Trail by organizing community workdays on the second Saturday of each month. Future goals include adding a mural, signs for navigation, and even security cameras to deter vandalism. One slide read, “Yes, our project does require maintenance because we need to make sure that our trail stays safe, clean, and sustainable for the people in our community.”
In their final remarks, the council members extended gratitude to Dr. LaSara Mitchell for her guidance, as well as to City Manager Charles Penny, Mayor Jonathan McCollar, and especially Councilwoman Shari Barr for championing the grant. They also thanked city staff and Public Works for supporting their efforts and making the logistics possible. A concluding slide read, “Your vote is not going without notice—you are doing an amazing job and continue to enrich and allow the youth of Statesboro to have these experiences.”
The Youth Council’s presentation ended with a unified message of appreciation and a promise to continue representing the city’s youth with purpose and pride.
4. Public Comments (Agenda Item)
APPROVED 5. Consent Agenda
A) Approval of Minutes
a) 04-01-2025 Council Minutes
B) Surplus approval of outdated electronics from the Statesboro Police Department
C) Surplus approval of two vehicles and three trailers from Statesboro Police Department inventory
DENIED 6. Public Hearing and Consideration APPLICATION RZ 24-10-02:
Collette Sabb-Burke requests a Zoning Map Amendment from R-15 (One-Household Residential) to R-4 (High-Density Residential) for approximately 0.32 acres at Garfield Street and Donnie Simmons Way (Tax Parcel# S02 000104 000) to construct a duplex.
The Statesboro City Council voted to deny a zoning map amendment request for a 0.32-acre vacant lot located at the corner of Garfield Street and Yaney Drive. The applicant sought to rezone the property to allow for a duplex, increasing the density beyond what is currently permitted in the surrounding single-family residential neighborhood.
Planning staff recommended denial of the request, citing concerns over compatibility. The lot is located in an R-15 residential zone, surrounded entirely by single-family homes, and staff determined the proposed duplex would be inconsistent with the established character of the area. Additionally, the lot’s size and R-4 zoning setbacks would only accommodate four parking spaces, further limiting its feasibility.
The Planning Commission had previously recommended approval of the request on a 5-0 vote, referencing Bryant's Landing led by developer Bill Gross as justification. However, city staff cautioned that the Gross development was part of a broader planned redevelopment area and differed from this isolated zoning request. Staff compared the proposal to past conflicts along East Main Street, warning that approval could set a precedent for incompatible infill development.
During council discussion, members noted the absence of nearby residents voicing concerns, but several expressed hesitation over placing a duplex in a neighborhood otherwise made up entirely of single-family homes. One council member pointed out that approving this could open the door for more duplex requests in the area, changing the neighborhood’s dynamic. They also differentiated the request from larger redevelopment projects like the Bryant's Landing conversion, which involved a full-site redevelopment rather than piecemeal rezoning.
Ultimately, the motion to deny the zoning request passed unanimously.
No Action 7. Public Hearing and Consideration of First Reading Ordinance 2025-01: An Ordinance amending the Unified Development Code
the first reading of a proposed amendment to the city’s Unified Development Code (UDC) prompted extensive discussion and ultimately resulted in no action, with council agreeing to revisit the matter at a future work session.
The amendment includes several updates, most notably:
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Fire safety requirement: Townhome buildings with more than two units would be required to have sprinkler systems.
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Tiny homes definition: Buildings between 400 and 749 square feet could be allowed in medium- and high-density residential districts with a special use permit.
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PUD (Planned Unit Development) adjustments: The non-residential space requirement for PUDs over 100 acres would be reduced from 20% to 10%.
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Amenity space clarification: Outdoor dining areas could now count toward amenity requirements for restaurants.
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General clean-up: Minor scrivener’s errors and outdated mobile home code language would be removed.
The fire code provision sparked the most debate. Developers voiced concerns about its cost implications and noted it was an uncommon mandate in similar municipalities. They warned that it could deter development and impact projects already in progress. In contrast, Fire Chief Tim Grams emphasized that the measure was a proactive, locally tailored safety effort, particularly in a college town with a large rental population and elevated fire risk.
Council members had questions about the tiny home language, amenity space standards, and the broader implications of changing development rules midstream. Due to the complexity of the amendment and unresolved concerns, council decided to take no action and revisit the issue during a scheduled May work session before proceeding with a formal first reading and vote.
APPROVED 8. Consideration of a Motion to Approve APPLICATION SUB 25-03-02:
Five Guys Development, LLC requests a Preliminary Subdivision Plat on a 33.08-acre portion of a 111-acre parcel to amend Phase 3 townhome subdivision at 6922 Burkhalter Road (Tax Parcel # MS108 000002 000).
The council approved a request to revise the third phase of a multi-phase townhome development located at 6922 Burkhalter Road. The site is a 33.08-acre portion of an 111-acre parcel zoned R-2, which allows both townhomes and single-family residences.
The proposed revision modifies the third phase of the subdivision, which was originally approved to include 214 townhomes. The updated plan now reduces the total number of units to 139—comprising 77 townhomes and 62 single-family detached homes. This change reflects a significant decrease in density and a shift toward more traditional housing.
City planning staff and the Planning Commission both recommended approval, noting that the revision remains compatible with the surrounding developing neighborhood and conforms to zoning requirements. The change also upholds prior conditions from the initial subdivision approval, including right-of-way improvements and traffic study implementation.
After brief discussion and clarification of the map layout, the council unanimously approved the revised preliminary plat for Phase Three.
APPROVED 9. Public Hearing and Consideration of Alcohol License
Boro the Hatchet Axe Throwing
19 East Vine Street
Owner: Michael McKellar Jr.
License Type: Bar
Ginny Hendley is absent
APPROVED 10. Public Hearing and Consideration of Alcohol License
Antoinette’s Café Kitchen
193 West Main Street
Owner: Nikira Boggs
License Type: Low Volume (Package Sales - Beer and Wine Only)
APPROVED 11. Consideration of a Motion to Approve
Contract with Needham's Traffic Signal LLC for traffic signal improvements at Chandler Road/Georgia Avenue (ENG-139) in the amount of $33,790.00. Funded by 2023 TSPLOST.
APPROVED 12. Consideration of a Motion to Approve
Purchase Agreement for property at 45 West Main Street for a parking lot under the West Main Street Streetscape Improvement project (ENG-92). Funded by 2018 TSPLOST.
APPROVED 13. Consideration of a Motion to Approve
Purchase Agreement for right of way and drainage easement on North Zetterower Avenue for the North Zetterower Avenue sidewalk project (ENG-122j). Funded by 2018 TSPLOST.
14. Other Business from City Council
Mayor Pro-Temp Shari Barr reminded everyone about the Downtown Live Concert, with The Breakfast Club performing April 17th at 7pm. She also reminded everyone of ArtsFest that will take place at Sweetheart Circle from 10am-2pm on April 26.
15. City Manager's Comments
City Manager Charles Penny provided updates on several key matters. First, he acknowledged a letter sent by the mayor to Governor Brian Kemp and Speaker Jon Burns, thanking them for their ongoing support of the Statesboro community.
Penny then asked councilmembers to reserve Monday, May 13 at 2:00 p.m. for the city's first budget work session of the year. This will begin the council's formal review of the proposed fiscal year budget.
He also addressed public speculation and recent media coverage surrounding The Vault Apartments. Penny clarified that the city did not order the eviction of tenants, but rather requested a structural remediation plan from the property owners after receiving an engineer's report identifying safety deficiencies. He emphasized that the structural engineer was not hired by the city but was fulfilling a professional obligation. Penny noted that the deadline for the owners to submit their plan is Friday, April 19, with expectations for follow-up on Monday. He praised the local community's response in helping affected tenants secure new housing, including assistance with deposits and several months' rent based on income.
In a moment of recognition, Penny credited Dr. Candice Bodkin of Georgia Southern University for her role in preparing the city's application to become a finalist for the All-America City Award. He noted that Statesboro’s nomination highlights several youth-centered initiatives such as the Youth Council, Youth Connect, Village Builders, and active community boards. Penny stated that representatives will travel to Denver in late June to present Statesboro’s case in a 10-minute showcase to the National Civic League.
He concluded by thanking all involved in recent community improvement efforts, including the Youth Council’s Chess Park ribbon cutting earlier that evening, stating that such programs help make Statesboro a more engaged and forward-moving city.
16. Public Comments (General)
Don Devine, a licensed massage therapist and owner of Devine Hands Therapeutic Bodywork LLC, returned to thank the mayor and council for hearing his concerns during a previous meeting. Devine mentioned that he had followed up with an email to council members and the city manager and offered to speak further with anyone after the meeting.
He briefly reflected on a challenging experience during his time in Canada, noting that despite uncertainty, the intensive training he received in body balancing techniques was ultimately worthwhile. Devine concluded by expressing his appreciation once more for the opportunity to share his perspective with city leaders.
17. Executive Session
Motion to enter into Executive Session to discuss Personnel Matters, Real Estate, and/or Potential Litigation in accordance with O.C.G.A. 50-14-3(b)
No action taken
18. Adjournment