In order to conform to the Zoning Procedures Law of the State of Georgia (Title 36, Chapter 66 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated), the following standards will be considered as appropriate and as relevant to a particular zoning decision by the city council when adopting, changing, or amending the zoning ordinance or the zoning map.

1.

Assure that the proposed change is reasonable and consistent with the spirit, purpose, and intent of the zoning ordinance.

2.

Consider the changes in community characteristics, which may take place because of the proposed change, and consider the consistency with and effect of the change on current public growth and development policies and plans.

3.

Consider the relative effectiveness or ineffectiveness of the present wording or districting of the ordinance, and whether a justification for change exists because of special reasons or a change in conditions.

4.

Consider the effect upon the public interest of granting or denying the proposed change and determine that the change will serve the best interests of the city, as compared to any hardship imposed upon the individual property owner.

5.

Consider the existing land use pattern, and specifically the presence or absence in the adjacent surrounding area of conditions and uses which are the same or similar in character to any proposed change or use, and the possible creation of an isolated district unrelated to adjacent districts.

6.

Determine that the proposed change will not substantially injure or detract from the use or value of neighboring property, or from the general character of adjacent and nearby property in the surrounding area.

7.

Consider the unique characteristics of the property involved, and whether the property to be affected by the zoning proposal has some reasonable economic use as currently zoned or whether there are substantial reasons why the property cannot be used in accordance with existing zoning.

8.

Consider the effect of the proposed change upon the logical, efficient, and economical extensions of public services and facilities, or possible overtaxing or burdening of existing public services or facilities, including but not limited to utilities, streets, schools, and public safety services, and also the associated costs to the local government in providing, improving, increasing, or maintaining such facilities and services.

9.

Consider the impact of the change with respect to probable effects upon highway traffic and safety, and especially access near intersections.

10.

Consider the impact of the proposed change upon the environment, including but not limited to drainage, soil erosion and sedimentation, flooding, noise, air quality, and water quality and quantity.

11.

Determine that the zoning proposal will permit suitable use or uses in view of the subject property's physical characteristics, the use and development of adjacent and nearby properties, existing zoning patterns, existing or proposed public facilities or services, environmental impacts, and current public growth and development policies and plans of the city.

12.

Consider whether the change is designed to correct an improper situation or would merely result in the granting of special privileges not available to adjacent or surrounding properties.

13.

Consider any other factors relevant to balancing the city's interests in promoting and protecting the public health, safety, morality, or general welfare against a right to unrestricted use of property.