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Neighbors press Choice Homes over density and easement as Planning Board approves Serenity Estates preliminary plat 6–1
Summary
Choice Homes won preliminary approval to replat a Sundown Acres parcel into 12 higher-end homes after neighbors argued the rezoning and access changes would alter character, raise erosion and easement concerns; board approved the preliminary plat and rezoning 6–1 after discussion and a commitment to more neighborhood outreach.
The Omaha Planning Board on Aug. 20 voted 6–1 to approve a preliminary plat and rezoning request from Choice Homes for a 12-lot development adjacent to existing Sundown Acres properties.
Chad Bumstead, representing Choice Homes, said the proposed product would be "high scale upper end townhomes" with prices starting around $800,000. He said the units were intended as individual structures and that he lives adjacent to the site and does not plan to remove existing easements. "I'm not planning on changing the easement," Bumstead said, and said he would work with neighbors to resolve specific concerns.
Multiple neighbors testified in opposition, citing density, notification and an existing access easement that serves back lots. Mark Docken said his family plans to build a house on the neighboring lot and said the developer's plans reduce a backyard setback and shift an access point; he also expressed concern about a proposed retaining wall. William Bierman, representing Heidi Donner, submitted a written opposition and told the board a long lot subdividing into 12 lots would materially change neighborhood character. Cassie Pavan also raised notice and density concerns.
Staff said the proposal is master-plan compliant for low-density residential and recommended approval subject to 13 conditions; the board approved the preliminary plat and rezoning with a 6–1 vote (Rosacker voted no). Chair Michael Pate urged the applicant to continue talking with neighbors before final plat return.
Why it matters: The decision allows denser infill of a previously large lot and underscores recurring planning tensions: property-owner development rights, neighborhood character, and notification and easement impacts. The board recorded conditions and encouraged direct neighborhood coordination before final platting.
