SOUTH FORSYTH -- Residents will soon have an opportunity to voice opinions on an overlay in south Forsyth that would pave the way for apartments at The Collection at Forsyth.

At a recent regular meeting, Forsyth County commissioners heard an update from County Attorney Ken Jarrard on a proposed overlay district that would allow a community zone for apartments in an undeveloped area near the popular outdoor mall on Peachtree Parkway.

“The community zone … it’s basically two structures,” Jarrard said. “I’ll just call it what it is, it’s going to be multi-family in those two structures.”

The overlay was discussed at length last year, though no decision was made. Many opponents spoke against the apartments, while supporters said the market is moving toward mixed-use developments.

At the meeting, Jarrard said some changes have been made since the issue was last discussed, including standards imposed from the current businesses on future housing.

“I added language that would give … the primary owner of the … retail area … separate easement rights to enforce a maintenance standard on the [community zone],” he said.

Another change would require work on a beautification project on Ga. 400 exits to be completed before the last building can be built.

“What we are proposing with the overlay on this issue is to basically have an ordinance-based requirement that, although this is not going to become part of the overlay district … the implementation of this beautification is a requirement of the overlay zoning,” Jarrard said.

Residents and businesses will also be part of a public policing effort to keep the area safe.

A public hearing will be held at the commission’s Oct. 20 regular meeting.