Duluth, GA. Wal-Mart Faces New Obstacles

Wal-Mart faces new obstacles [Atlanta Journal-Constitution]

Duluth’s Zoning Board of Appeals meets Wednesday night to consider yet another item regarding the proposed Wal-Mart on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard.

THE ISSUE
The retailer’s appeal, which was postponed from October, concerns the building permit it applied for in August. The city’s former planning director denied the permit, citing the city’s adoption of a moratorium on large-scale buildings.

THE BACKGROUND
Last month, the Zoning Board of Appeals sided with opponents of the store and ruled that the former director of planning had overstepped her bounds in approving tweaked designs to the retailer’s store.

WHAT COULD HAPPEN
If the board agrees with Wal-Mart, it could overturn the former planning director’s decision. That would clear the way for Wal-Mart to reapply for a building permit — once the city lifts its moratorium on large-scale buildings. If the board disagrees with Wal-Mart, the former planning director’s decision will stand. The board could also delay a decision on the question and postpone a ruling until it meets again on Dec. 18.

THE DETAILS
The board meets at Duluth’s City Hall, 3578 W. Lawrenceville St., at 7 p.m.