Good Growth DeKalb Appeals Walmart Supercenter Building Permit

Good Growth DeKalb, the local organization fighting the construction of a Walmart Supercenter in North Decatur, has filed an appeal against the redevelopment and will get a chance to argue its case next month.

Selig Enterprises, which was recently issued a building permit to move forward, will go before the DeKalb County Board of Appeals on Feb. 13 at 1 p.m., according to county signs posted at the site.

The group filed the appeal Jan. 9, which they said was a "necessary precursor to filing a lawsuiti," according to a note from the group sent out to residents who signed an online petition over the summer protesting the Walmart.

The Medlock Area Neighborhood Association offered more details last week on what basis Good Growth DeKalb filed the appeal.

From their post:

1) Medlock Road is not an authorized truck route, and therefore Walmart's use of this road violates DeKalb Code Section 17-94
2) various hydrology requirements were not met, and
3) there are various violations of the county Tree Protection Ordinance

DeKalb County thoroughly reviewed the redevelopment plan and determined that all criteria were met before granting the building permit. Selig is confident they've met the criteria and is prepared to address the appeal at the Feb. 13th hearing.

Good Growth DeKalb is encouraging supporters to donate to the forthcoming legal challenge and has organized a meeting the night before the appeal hearing, Feb. 12, at North Decatur Presbyterian Church. The group also plans protest again in front of the shopping center on Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

What do you think of Good Growth DeKalb's appeals challenge? Tell us in the comments section below.