Commission approves Ashgrove Woods HOA plan to subdivide Lauderdale Drive parcel for nine townhomes

The Nicholasville Planning Commission voted to approve a zone map amendment and final development plan for 1001 Lauderdale Drive on July 22, allowing a 0.97‑acre portion of a larger HOA‑owned parcel to be divided into nine townhome lots.

Attorney Chris Creech introduced the application and turned the presentation to a representative (identified in the record as Mr. Horner), who recounted the site’s history: an earlier memorandum of agreement had set aside land for a school that the school later declined, leaving the homeowners association responsible for roughly nine acres of green space and a detention basin. The homeowners association proposed subdividing about 0.97 acres (Parcel Z) to create nine townhomes that would generate revenue to fund basin maintenance and reduce the HOA’s upkeep burden.

Horner and staff noted the parcel’s topography makes rear‑loaded parking impractical because of a 3:1 slope down to the detention basin and retaining‑wall constraints. The submitted development plan included 75% brick facades on fronts and sides, two‑car garages for each unit, minimum lot widths above zoning minimums and a $1,500 per‑lot incentive fee payable to the city.

Commission discussion focused on circulation, compatibility with existing front‑loaded townhomes on Lauderdale Drive, and consistency with the comprehensive plan. Tim Frost, director of planning and zoning, supported approval and noted the proposal meets KRS 100.123 criteria for zoning changes. A commissioner moved to approve the development plan and zone change including staff comments; the motion carried by voice vote 6–0.

The approval allows the homeowners association to proceed with the subdivision and sale of the nine lots; final plats and construction documents will be reviewed as required before building permits are issued.