Tapestry Development Group proposes affordable senior housing in Johnston County

The Planning Board of Selma, Johnston County, convened on February 24, 2025, to discuss a proposed zoning change aimed at establishing an affordable senior living community. The meeting focused on the applicant's request to rezone a specific site to a transitional residential zone, which would allow for mixed residential and commercial uses while maintaining the character of the surrounding neighborhoods.

The discussion began with an overview of the transitional residential district as defined in Section 17 of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). This zoning designation is intended to facilitate the coexistence of multifamily and commercial establishments, promoting the conversion of older homes for appropriate uses and encouraging historic preservation.

The applicant, Tapestry Development Group, expressed their intention to build 44 senior housing units, consisting of a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments. The proposed development aims to provide affordable housing options for seniors in the Selma area. The board noted that while the intended use is for senior housing, the rezoning would technically allow for other potential uses in the future.

A key point of discussion was the possibility of implementing a conditional use permit to ensure that the development remains focused on senior housing. This would provide additional assurance to the community regarding the project's purpose. The applicant confirmed that they are in the preliminary stages of planning and are working with the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency to secure low-income housing tax credits, which are essential for financing the project.

Board members inquired about the target demographic for the housing units, with the applicant indicating that they would primarily serve residents from the surrounding area, particularly those in Johnston County. The applicant emphasized the importance of conducting a market analysis to confirm demand for the proposed units.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the significance of the proposed development for the community, highlighting the need for affordable housing options for seniors. The Planning Board will continue to review the application and consider the implications of the zoning change in future meetings.