Petitioner Billi Fryer is one of three property owners of Paradise Island in the Paradise Park neighborhood. Ms. Fryer has petitioned on behalf of the property owners to acquire the City right of way (ROW) leading to the homes on the island (an extension of Keystone Drive over the marsh). Georgia Code 32-7 and City Ordinance 6-105 provide authorization for the Mayor and Aldermen to declare un-needed ROW surplus and available for sale to adjoining property owners. The petition has been reviewed by Public Works and Water Resources, Development Services, Police, Fire, Planning and Urban Design and Real Estate Services. Staff recommend approval to declare this section of ROW surplus and available for sale subject to the following conditions:

• Petitioner(s) will prepare and submit a subdivision plat labeling the ROW as a private road to be owned and maintained by the owners of all lots on the island within the subdivision.
• If the lot owners install a gate along the private road leading to the island, then such a gate would comply with the International Fire Code (2018 Edition) and City of Savannah Gated Community Ordinance as follows:
  • COS Gated Community Ordinance requires a Click 2 Enter system.
  • IFC Section 503.2.1 requires an unobstructed width of 20’0” on fire apparatus access roads. It allows for a smaller width through approved security gates
  • IFC Section 503.6 requires an approved means of emergency operation (COS only accepts: Knox Key switch on electric gates)
  • IFC Section 503.6 requires the security gate and emergency operation to be maintained and operational at all times

The sales price of the land would be established by an appraisal from a well-qualified, MAI-designated appraiser. The petitioner(s) will be responsible for all costs associated with the proposed real estate transaction. The sale would benefit the City by reducing maintenance costs associated with the road and generating sale proceeds to the general fund.

Further request authorization for the City Manager to execute a quitclaim deed and associated closing documents.

Approval