New rule requires approval

A new rule governing the Columbia County Planning Commission won't immediately require at least one board member to relinquish her seat.

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Brett McGuire: Former Planning Commissioner, who intends to run for a state House seat, already has resigned in part because of the rule change.

The ordinance change, approved in December by the Columbia County Board of Commissioners, must first receive approval by the U.S. Justice Department before planning commissioners can be required to resign should they declare an intent to seek an elected office and begin collecting campaign contributions.

That means Planning Commission Chairwoman Deanne Hall, who is running for the District 3 county commission seat held by Diane Ford, has a little more time to serve in her current role before being asked to leave the post.

Ms. Hall says she intends to keep her seat with the planning commission until forced to leave it.

"I've been asked by my commissioner to continue to serve on the planning commission until I'm no longer able to serve," she said .

Columbia County Attorney Doug Batchelor said he likely will send a copy of the new ordinance to the Justice Department next week.

"Once they get it, they've got 60 days, provided they don't ask you for any additional stuff," he said.

Former Planning Commissioner Brett McGuire, who intends to run for a state House seat, has already resigned in part because of the rule change.

Mr. McGuire was an at-large appointment by commission Chairman Ron Cross. Mr. Cross said Wednesday he will name a replacement for Mr. McGuire this week.

Ms. Hall's commissioner, Ms. Ford, appointed her to the post about three years ago and isn't anxious to find a new person for the job.

"For somebody who has the experience she has, it's going to be hard for me to find somebody," Ms. Ford said.

"I told her to wait until the county attorney tells me everything legally has been handled before she steps down."

Mr. Cross said the reason for the new ordinance was to prevent planning commissioners from potentially abusing their position while seeking an elected office.

Both Ms. Hall and Ms. Ford disapprove of the rule change.

On most matters, the planning commission is a recommending body to the full commission, which makes the final decision, Ms. Hall said.

"How can we abuse our authority when they're the ones who have the real authority?" Ms. Hall asked.

Reach Donnie Fetter at (706) 868-1222, ext. 115, or donnie.fetter@augustachronicle.com.