Blount County Planning Commission debates open space restrictions amid housing concerns

In a recent Blount County Commission meeting, a spirited discussion unfolded around the future of the county's growth and housing policies. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as commissioners grappled with the balance between development and maintaining quality of life for residents.

An elderly commissioner, reflecting on his years of experience, emphasized a philosophy that resonates deeply: "You're either growing or you're dying." He passionately advocated for Blount County to continue its trajectory of growth, highlighting the county's enviable position compared to others in the region. "Many would love to be in the position that we're in," he noted, underscoring the importance of not stagnating.

Central to the meeting was the contentious issue of open space requirements for cluster developments. A proposal to reduce the mandated open space from 40% to 30% was on the table. The commissioner pointed out that while there is ongoing debate about the correlation between open space and home prices, he had not seen definitive data to support claims that such a reduction would significantly impact housing costs.

The conversation shifted to the pressing issue of affordable housing, with the commissioner lamenting the current median home price in Blount County, which stands at $410,000. Despite a slight decrease from the previous year, he expressed concern that many residents, including himself, find homeownership increasingly out of reach. "That train's left the station for Blount County," he remarked, highlighting the challenges faced by potential homebuyers in the area.

As the meeting progressed, the discussion revealed a broader concern about the implications of development policies on the community's future. With numerous homes being built without restrictions on open space, the commissioners are at a crossroads, tasked with making decisions that will shape the county's landscape for years to come. The outcome of these discussions will not only affect housing prices but also the overall quality of life for Blount County residents.