North Bend planning panel rejects Gaston Oaks Phase 11 final development plan after residents cite landslide, drainage and safety concerns

The Village of North Bend Planning Commission voted to deny approval of the final development plan for Gaston Oaks Phase 11 — the Derbyshire/Glen Eagles condominium proposal — after extended testimony from neighbors, engineers and nonprofit hillside experts about slope stability, drainage and long-term public risk.

Planning staff and the applicant presented a revised plan that reduces previously proposed density and calls for 24 duplex buildings (48 total dwelling units). John Huth of Hamilton County Planning and Development told the commission the applicant had submitted a geotechnical report dated Sept. 4, 2024, revised grading and a new road alignment; staff concluded the changes supported approval, recommended conditions and set a maximum of 48 units.

Supporters, including the applicant's attorney Jamie Burley, said the proposal is smaller and less intense than earlier approvals for the same PUD and therefore “in accordance with the original concept plan.” Burley asked the commission to approve the final development plan subject to continued technical review with the village engineer.

Opponents included more than a dozen St. Anne’s Drive residents and independent experts who said the property has a documented history of slippage and that the latest geotechnical work did not answer key questions. Rebecca Simpson, an attorney representing multiple neighbors, said the geotechnical report the developer submitted was prepared for an earlier plan and “does not address the plan that has been…