In a contentious decision, the Newton County Board of Commissioners has approved an appeal by Covington Creek Holding LLC to extend the development timeline for a rental home project. The approval, made on January 7th, overrules a previous denial by the planning commission and allows the construction of 71 single-family rental units on Fairview Road. This decision comes after three years of development efforts and significant opposition from local residents, who have raised concerns about property damage and zoning issues.

The development, known as "Covington Creek Springs," received initial approval in September 2022. However, unexpected challenges such as rock blasting slowed progress, pushing the project behind schedule. Many residents of District 3, where the development is located, voiced their objections during the meeting, citing damage to their homes caused by the blasting activities. Some also expressed dissatisfaction with the change from planned purchase homes to rental properties, raising questions about adherence to local ordinances.

Despite these concerns, the board voted 3-2 in favor of the appeal, with District 3 Commissioner Stephanie Lindsey making the motion. Commissioners Stan Edwards and Demond Mason supported her, while J.C. Henderson and LeAnne Long sided with the public commenters. Lindsey emphasized the legal obligations of the board, noting that denying the extension could lead to costly litigation. Thomas Mitchell, representing Covington Creek Holding, argued that the developer had invested over $3 million and was entitled to complete the project under existing permits and zoning laws.

The approval of the extension highlights the ongoing tension between developers' rights and community concerns. While some commissioners acknowledged the validity of residents' complaints, they ultimately prioritized legal compliance and the county's broader interests. Following the vote, Lindsey called for a review of zoning laws to prevent similar conflicts in the future. The decision left many attendees disappointed, but it underscores the complex balance between economic development and public welfare.