Queenstown introduces annexation resolution for 200.552-acre tract; adoption tabled pending agreement

The Queenstown Commissioners on July 25 introduced RESOLUTION NO. 18-102 to annex 200.552 acres owned by Salthouse LLC and the Frank S. Dudley, Jr. Real Estate Trust into the Town of Queenstown, but tabled final action because the annexation agreement had not been finalized.

President Thomas B. Willis, Jr. said the annexation resolution was eligible for adoption but moved to table the item until the next meeting after staff noted the formal agreement remained incomplete. Commissioner Alton Hardee, Jr. seconded the motion and the vote was 3-0.

The commission repeatedly moved to introduce the resolution (recorded in multiple procedural motions during the meeting) and also introduced two charter-amendment resolutions: RESOLUTION NO. 18-106, to add a provision allowing the clerk-treasurer to cancel an election where a seat is uncontested, and RESOLUTION NO. 18-107, to increase the time voting polls are open. Both charter amendments were introduced by motion and passed on introductions by a 3-0 vote.

A public hearing on these resolutions was scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 22 at 7:00 p.m. The annexation introduction prompted public comment: Perry Stutman, a Planning Commission member and resident, told commissioners he saw "very little benefit to the Town at this time" from the Dudley petition and noted the applicants had not requested rezoning or development plans. Commissioners said negotiations over potential services or conditions would occur if and when development plans are filed.

Because the annexation agreement is not finalized, no adoption vote or binding land-use changes occurred at the July 25 meeting.