(Lawrenceville, Ga., March 16, 2026) – The following statement is from Gwinnett County District 2 Commissioner Ben Ku regarding the proposed rezoning on Highway 78 near the Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary:

“There has been some confusion about my role in this matter, so I want to clarify the facts. I am not the property owner, I am not the developer and I did not initiate or propose this zoning request. Like all zoning cases, this application was submitted by a private applicant and must go through the County’s established review process before the Planning Commission and Board of Commissioners. If you see information circulating that suggests otherwise, please know that it is not accurate.

“I’ve heard from many of you over the past several weeks regarding the current zoning proposal near the Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary, and I want you to know that your messages, emails and calls have not gone unnoticed. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to respectfully share your concerns and perspectives with me.

“As your commissioner, it is important to me that I represent our community and carefully consider all input before making any decision. At the same time, state law and the County’s Unified Development Ordinance require that zoning matters go through a formal process that includes public participation and public hearings before the Planning Commission and the Board of Commissioners. 

“Because of this, I legally cannot prejudge or commit to a position on the proposal before the public hearing takes place. I want to make sure I can fully participate in the decision when it comes before the Board and represent our community at the hearing. 

“I strongly encourage residents to participate in the upcoming public meetings so your voices can be heard as part of the official record. Please also remember that communications sent to me or my office through any channel are public records subject to the Georgia Open Records Act but would not be included in the official record of this zoning case.  

“I appreciate everyone who has taken the time to respectfully engage on this issue."