In a recent government meeting, Ridgewater LLC presented a proposal to rezone a 6.9-acre property located at the intersection of Brunswick Drive and West River from Business Neighborhood (BN) to Residential Medium Density (RMD). The plan includes the construction of 50 residential units, comprising 12 four-unit buildings and one two-unit building, with nearly 50% of the area designated as green space. The proposal received support from the commission, with a motion to approve the rezoning passing unanimously.

Robert D. Yost, representing Ridgewater LLC, emphasized that the development would align with previous successful projects in the area, such as those at Ridge Water and Windsor Place. During the public hearing, local resident Caroline Katinski raised concerns about the nature of the housing, inquiring whether the units would be subsidized or regular market sales. Yost clarified that the units would be sold at market rates.

The commission also addressed a conditional use request for a cluster subdivision associated with the rezoning. Yost noted that the proposed development would adhere to strict zoning regulations, including larger side yard setbacks. However, the fire marshal expressed concerns regarding the proposed street width of 24 feet, which is below the city’s minimum requirement of 28 feet for public streets, citing potential accessibility issues during emergencies. Yost assured that the streets would be private, alleviating some concerns.

In a separate agenda item, Fleet Management requested a rezone of property at Brace Avenue and Lorraine Boulevard from a mix of BN and RMD to Business General (BG). Jason Hammond, representing Fleet Management, argued that the current zoning was hindering development opportunities due to the proximity of existing commercial establishments. However, local residents, including Councilwoman Brenda Davis, voiced strong opposition, fearing that the change could lead to undesirable businesses, such as gas stations, encroaching on their residential neighborhood. Concerns were also raised about the potential impact on property values and the need for careful consideration of the area's historical flooding issues.

Despite the opposition, the commission moved forward with discussions, reiterating that many uses permitted under the proposed BG zoning are already allowed under the current classifications. The meeting concluded with a call for further deliberation on the implications of the proposed changes, highlighting the community's desire to maintain the integrity of their residential areas while balancing development needs.