The Winder City Council has approved the formation of a new Planning, Zoning, and Appeals Board, consolidating key responsibilities into one unified board to better serve the city’s long-term planning and development goals. The ordinance establishing the new board was adopted at the June 3, 2025, and September 2, 2025 City Council meetings and is set to take effect March 1, 2026, pending the Mayor’s signature.

This newly established board replaces the previously dissolved Planning Board and Board of Appeals and brings together responsibilities for reviewing and making recommendations on zoning decisions, variances, subdivision plats, appeals. It will also have quasi-judicial authority over mobile home applications and certain administrative appeals.

“This board will help streamline our development review process while ensuring public input and transparency,” said Mayor Jimmy Terrell. “By consolidating these responsibilities, we’re creating a more efficient structure to support smart, responsible growth in Winder.”

Board Structure and Appointments
The Planning, Zoning, and Appeals Board will consist of seven members, each appointed by the Mayor or City Council member:

• One at-large member appointed by the Mayor
• Two at-large members, each appointed by an at-large Council member
• Four members, each appointed by a Council member representing one of the four wards

All members must have lived in the City of Winder for at least one year and remain residents throughout their term. Ward-appointed members must also reside in the ward they represent at the time of appointment. Members will be paid a nominal amount for their service.

Term Structure
Terms are staggered to align with the terms of the Mayor and Council members who appoint them. Each term ends on June 30 of the year following the relevant municipal election.

What the Board Will Do
The Planning, Zoning, and Appeals Board will:

• Review and recommend zoning decisions (including rezonings, annexations, and conditional use permits)
• Review variances and subdivision plats
• Hold public hearings as required
• Make final decisions on mobile home permits and appeals of certain administrative decisions 

Now Accepting Applications
The City is currently accepting applications for this new board. Residents who meet the qualifications and are interested in serving are encouraged to apply. First review of applications will begin Oct. 1

The board will begin training ahead of the effective date, once appointments are finalized. Board service expected to begin in 2026.

For more information or updates on appointments, visit the Boards, Authorities & Commissions page.