Planning commission recommends lower-density alternative for Waters Road subdivision

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of a lower-density alternative for a proposed eight‑lot subdivision on Waters Road after hearing from neighbors and the developer.

Case 20Five-five-thirteen would have rezoned roughly 13 acres from R80 to R40 to allow eight rural‑subdivision lots. Nathan (RedBarn/Waters Road developer) said the intent was a rural subdivision with house sizes above 3,500 square feet and three‑car garages; most lots were to be approximately 1.5 acres. Several neighbors spoke at the hearing urging preservation of mature hardwoods, protection of well and creek resources, and maintaining the rural character of Waters Road. Some cited existing farms and horse operations nearby and expressed concern about increased impervious surface and runoff.

Staff noted that the county’s rural-subdivision rules require 60,000‑square‑foot minimum lots and that R60 zoning could provide a compromise that preserves a step down from denser suburban parcels nearby. Commissioners discussed whether to grant the petition as filed or to recommend an R60 rezoning as a middle ground that better aligns with neighboring lot sizes and the county’s character areas. The commission voted to recommend R60 zoning with no concurrent variance, allowing the project to proceed while preserving larger minimum lot sizes and giving the developer the option to pursue setbacks or other specific relief through the zoning-variance process.

Next steps: the commission’s recommendation for R60 will be forwarded to the County Commission for final action; the developer may seek setback variances from the Board of Zoning Appeals if needed.