Developer proposes 40.7‑acre Waynesville subdivision targeted at older buyers; Council asks for working session

Lance Oakes of Oaks Tree Development told the Waynesville Village Council on Aug. 5 that he has a contract to buy 40.7 acres across from the Government Center on Lytle Road and seeks annexation and rezoning to AR‑1 and R‑3 to build 22 four‑unit condominiums and 32 single‑family lots.

"The proposed condominiums would allow the aging population to move without moving out of the community," Oakes said, adding the homes would be marketed to an older demographic and would be high‑end, locally built homes with prices he estimated between $800,000 and $1.5 million for single‑family units.

Council members offered cautious responses. Mr. Gallagher said he was opposed to the proposed lot sizes and the denser layout, describing himself as "a no on the proposed lot size and condensed housing." Mrs. Miller asked about expected impacts on schools; Oakes said the condominiums are two‑bedroom units and are not marketed toward families. Chief Gary Copeland estimated the development could increase the village population by "about 300." Mr. Lauffer said he wanted the school’s view before supporting the plan.

Council suggested next steps rather than taking immediate action: Mrs. Miller recommended a working session to review plans with Chief Copeland present, and Mr. Lauffer asked Oakes to consult Wayne Local Schools about potential student impacts. Oakes said he is working under contractual deadlines and asked whether annexation and rezoning would be feasible; Mayor Earl Isaacs said the item deserved a working session.

The presentation did not include a formal application before Council; members requested additional review and follow‑up information, including engagement with the school district and a more detailed site plan. No vote or formal commitment on annexation or rezoning was taken at the meeting.