Agenda - Planning Commission - 08/04/2016

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Al Pearson, 14821 Bowers Drive, stated that he has known the river lots since day one as his family helped to build the road. He stated that they would like to sell some of their land and it would be nice to have the lots match the rest of the development. He stated that some of the lots that were originally put in were people that purchased two or three lots but have since split those lots into single lots. He stated that after speaking with builders he has learned that people do not want large lots anymore. He stated that his neighbors to the east are also aging and they will make the choice not to farm anymore as well. He noted that they would like to get feedback before they spend any more money on this plan. Commissioner Andrusko stated that he would support the development as this would match into the existing neighborhood. He believed that offering a 50-foot buffer is very generous. He stated that although he hears the concerns of the neighborhood those also need to be balanced against safety. Commissioner Maul stated that he would also support the development as it would conform to the existing development. Commissioner Nosan stated that this is a gem and it is a gorgeous quaint neighborhood and has mixed feelings with adding more people into the neighborhood. She stated that the new houses would need to blend in because it is beautiful. She stated that the road seems skinny and her concern would be added traffic to that roadway. She asked for additional information on the 50- foot buffer. Mr. Dobson stated that the 50-foot buffer would be a conservation easement with 50 foot trees that would provide a mass buffer between the development and the existing homes. He noted that this would be a place where the grading line would stop and the trees would be preserved. Community Development Director Gladhill stated that element would also help to support the PUD request and would provide a buffer to the existing residents. Commissioner Brauer stated that he has always been big on process and noted that this is one development where the process has been a model for the rest of the City because they have involved people and listened to people and attempted to design the development to fit into the existing neighborhood. He commended the applicant for bringing the public into the process to the extent that they have. Mr. Dobson stated that there has been a very involved resident process that the applicants have been supportive of. He noted that the applicants have lived at this property for a long time and therefore are concerned with making this development fit into the existing development. He stated that if this development is not approved the land could be sold and when the MUSA is extended this could develop into traditional single family lots. Acting Chairperson VanScoy stated that the buffer is a great amenity and should be appreciated. He stated that he is not concerned with this development, but the safety issue that exists. He stated that he would like staff to work with the developer to determine if there could be an Planning Commission/July 21, 2016 Page 12 of 20