In a recent government meeting, officials conducted the second reading of Ordinance 24-10, which proposes to rezone a 31.51-acre property on Billy Mayer Road from RS 18 (single-family residential with minimum 18,000 square foot lots) to RS 12 (single-family residential with minimum 12,000 square foot lots). The public hearing for this ordinance is scheduled for November 26, 2024.

Kim Tutter, the Director of Planning and Economic Development, explained that the rezoning would allow for a maximum of three lots per acre, compared to the two lots permitted under the current zoning. This change is aimed at making the development financially feasible for the applicant, who indicated that without the rezoning, the project could be at risk of not proceeding due to high development costs.

Concerns were raised by Alderman Reedy regarding the potential impact on adjacent properties, particularly those in the Castle Ridge and Bluffs of Winding Oaks neighborhoods. Tutter reassured that the development would maintain a price point for homes starting around $400,000, which could mitigate some concerns about property values. Additionally, the planning commission has recommended larger setbacks for homes to accommodate the smaller lots.

Discussion also touched on the need for adequate measures to prevent traffic and pedestrian issues between the new development and existing neighborhoods. Tutter confirmed that common features such as fencing and landscaping would be included in the planned development, with maintenance managed by a homeowners association (HOA).

The ordinance received a favorable recommendation from the planning commission on October 7, 2024, and the meeting concluded with a motion to approve the ordinance and set the public hearing date.