Pulte Homes presents revised Ramsey Farms development plan to Beaufort County Council

The Beaufort County Planning Commission convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding the proposed Ramsey Farms project. The meeting featured a presentation by Rob Merrick of Pulte Homes, who outlined the company's revised plans in response to community feedback and the county's comprehensive plan.

Merrick emphasized the importance of aligning the project with the comprehensive plan, which advocates for mixed housing types and affordable workforce housing. He noted that the revised proposal aims to address community needs by increasing the number of deed-restricted homes and introducing down payment assistance programs for first responders and young professionals.

The discussion highlighted the project's strategic location, which is within close proximity to major employment hubs, schools, and retail areas, making it an ideal site for development. Merrick stated that the project would adhere to the place type overlay, a key aspect of the comprehensive plan, which aims to guide growth in a sustainable manner.

However, concerns were raised by commission members regarding the project's density. The initial proposal suggested 244 homes, significantly higher than the existing zoning allowance of 27 homes. Some members expressed skepticism about whether such density aligns with the surrounding community's character and the intent of the Hamlet Place type designation.

The commission also discussed the need for clearer architectural guidelines and the importance of addressing staff recommendations before moving forward. Several members suggested deferring the decision to allow the developers time to refine their plans based on the feedback received.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between developers, the planning commission, and the community as they work towards a development that meets local needs while adhering to established planning principles. The next steps will involve further collaboration to ensure that the project aligns with both community expectations and regulatory standards.