25-04-2025
Annexation request could nearly double the size of Harlem
HARLEM, Ga. (WJBF) – The City of Harlem is getting ready to discuss an annexation plan that could double the size of the city.
More than 700 acres of land near Harlem High School (along Clary Cut Road) is the talking point for city leaders.
While they're optimistic about the possibilities, they say they're waiting on key discussions to happen first.
This started last year, when a land owner came to Mayor Roxanne Whitaker and city leaders, asking what they would accept if he were to annex his property into the city.
'We told him nothing less than half acre lots. Now he has come and asked to annex into the city, but he has given us no preliminary plans of what he wishes to do with that property,' said Whitaker.
The property owner then sent an application in March to annex the land into city limits.
After notifying Columbia County commissioners, the city got a request to expand from the developer, Log Creek Properties, LLC.
For Harlem residents, the annexation could mean more housing, which in turn could lead to more foot traffic in the town and economic benefits.
City leaders are exploring the possibilities, but they want to maintain their small-town charm.
'It would be a plus. Of course, we welcome anyone to our city, and we consider those outside of our city limits Harlem people—so it would just add to our charm. We are striving to keep that small town hospitality that we're known for, and I do believe our downtown still promotes that,' Whitaker said.
It's also another opportunity for growth in the town after a setback because of Hurricane Helene.
The city was planning to use the old North Harlem Elementary School property as the site of a multi-purpose park, but the hurricane turned it into a debris site—and now they're back to square 1.
'We are hoping to be finishing that up soon, and our engineer says he is almost ready to start work when given the all clear,' said Whitaker.
In the meantime, the mayor says city leaders are ready to hear from both sides of the aisle about this massive annexation.
'I want to hear what he wants to do with the property and engage it from there. I've already heard from several citizens who aren't for it—and I understand, because everybody likes Harlem to stay the same. But if we don't grow, we'll die,' Whitaker said.
Whitaker and city council members will discuss the annexation plan at their next meeting on April 28th at 6:30 PM at the Harlem Public Safety Building.
They will take input from the public, but they need to sign up by 2 PM Friday.
A public hearing is scheduled for May 6th, and a second reading will happen during the regular meeting on May 22nd.
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