By PAT NEWMAN
Staff Writer

Two area doctors can move forward on their plans for new offices near Fayette Community Hospital now that the County Commission has approved rezonings for their projects.

Both properties are on Ga. Highway 54 West.

Commissioners Thursday approved Larry Mayfield's request to change the zoning of 4.9 acres from an agricultural category to office-institutional so he can sell the land to Dr. Gerald Goldklang. Goldklang wants to move his cancer and blood disorders practice to the property.

The land is next to the Medical Arts Building, one parcel over from the hospital.

The petitioner said the residential setting of the area would be maintained and walking and running trails would be incorporated into the plan. The zoning surrounding the property is residential and office/institutional and is within the city of Fayetteville. Commissioner Greg Dunn said he was pleased the petitioners decided to stay in Fayette County, as opposed to seeking annexation into Fayetteville.

Dr. David Gryboski has a practice in digestive disorders and liver problems, and hopes to establish a new office farther west on Hwy. 54. Commissioners approved his request for office zoning for just under an acre.

Commissioners tabled a controversial request from Thomas Busey to rezone 155 acres on Goza Road at Old Greenville Road from agricultural to residential to build approximately 61 homes. Citing a last-minute change in the concept plan to incorporate more green space, Integrated Science and Engineering asked that the plan be reintroduced at the next scheduled zoning meeting set for Sept. 23.

If changes to the subdivision plan are significant, the applicant will have to start over in the rezoning process.

The county Planning Commission had unanimously recommended denial after hearing from residents opposed to the plan.

A discussion on whether Michael Johnson of 141 McBride Cemetery Road should be allowed to use a strip of county-owned land as part of his front yard resulted in a decision to allow him to clear underbrush from the easement only.

Commissioner Linda Wells was adamantly opposed to the petition, saying that granting Johnson's request would set a precedent and also create legal concerns. “I cannot give you tacit approval to use county property,” Wells said.

Commissioner Glen Gosa admitted that 50 to 60 percent of homeowners cut brush in the county right of ways. The final recommendation passed 4-1 to allow Johnson to clear underbrush only and prohibit him from cutting any trees larger than six inches in diameter. He also must work out the details of his plan with a county employee to be arranged by county manager Billy Beckett.

Commissioners unanimously approved a request to return 184 acres on Sandy Creek Road from residential to agricultural zoning. The request was made so the owner can build a pole barn on the property, which is currently being farmed.