Commission Postpones Decision on Mars Hill Road/U.S. 78 Rezone

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday night granted the request of Butts County developer Bill Jones for a postponement of consideration of a rezone of 32 acres for a commercial development at Mars Hill Road and U.S. 78.

Jones had told the county that he plans to build a JP convenience store and gas station with 20 fueling positions and a Burger King at the intersection where a BP station now stands.

He also submitted concept plans for a hotel and big box store–possibly a Publix grocery story–for the site.

But he has said he wants to be able to put a car dealership, car wash and car lube store on the site as alternatives.

Jones currently owns Countryside Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Jackson and operates and leases convenience stores, fast food restaurants, supermarkets and retail space in Georgia, Alabama and the Carolinas.

Oconee County Planning and Code Enforcement Assistant Director Gabriel Quintas relayed Jones’ request for postponement until May 7 to the Board and, as is normal, did not provide a reason for the request.

The Planning Commission voted 7 to 3 last month against the proposal.

In other action on Tuesday, the Board approved a rezone and variance request for a small business office park on Mars Hill Road north of Butler’s Crossing.

For more on the story, with a video of the Board of Commissioners meeting, please go to Oconee County Observations.