Developer outlines 162‑unit "cottage" rental community; residents ask about rents and affordability

Aisha Rashad and Matt Furlough of BTR Group presented a rezoning request to reclassify a Southwood Road parcel to an 'Apartments Limited' designation with a Clifton Dale overlay amendment. The project was described as a for‑rent, cottage‑style community of 162 units on approximately 30.13 acres (about 5.4 units per acre) with private garages, driveways, fenced yards and more than 6.3 acres — roughly 20% — dedicated to outdoor recreation/open space.

The presentation included a two‑minute promotional video and photos of elevations. In response to questions, the developer said the average rent for the three‑ and four‑bedroom townhome‑style units at an existing property the developer manages is "somewhere around about $2,500 a month" and said the property will be professionally managed with maintenance and covenants. When asked whether the developer would commit to dedicated affordable units, the applicant said there is no current requirement and that they "cannot commit to that." The applicant said property management enforces covenants and that some properties have agreements that provide incentives for police or public safety presence.

Residents and other attendees asked about school assignments, open space, and how the development fits with the surrounding live‑work and retail uses. Staff reiterated procedural deadlines and encouraged continued outreach. No formal approvals were taken at the meeting.