Board continues review of 69‑home Danville Corner Road major subdivision, asks for traffic study and legal clarity on land‑lease model

A proposal for a major subdivision on Danville Corner Road — consisting of 69 single‑family homes, three multifamily buildings and a 5,000‑sq‑ft warehouse on roughly 15.2 acres — was the subject of extensive board and public questioning at the Nov. 10 Auburn Planning Board meeting. Staff noted the project meets dimensional and density standards in the general business district but emphasized that the application is subject to a two‑meeting preliminary/final review because it is a major subdivision.

The applicant described the development concept, stormwater mitigation via an enlarged gravel wetland, a private road network, and a land‑lease model under which the developer would retain ownership of some infrastructure and lease lots to homeowners. Several board members expressed concern about the legal and practical implications of that arrangement, asking for clear answers on conveyance, termination rights in sample lease language, and whether municipal liens and other protections would be enforceable under the proposed structure.

Neighbors and public commenters focused on traffic and safety. One resident said he believed "probably 90% of the traffic that comes out onto Danville Corner Road from this development will turn right and go down toward Washington Street," and urged the board to consult MDOT because of existing congestion and recent fatal crashes near the Washington Street intersection. In response the board asked the applicant to supply a traffic impact analysis, asked staff to solicit MDOT comment in writing, and requested the applicant provide a legal opinion addressing the lease/conveyance questions and demonstrate how open‑space requirements will be met. The board continued the matter to the December 9 meeting.