Commissioners approve EC New Vision rezoning for 107‑lot conservation community with conditions

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved a rezoning request from EC New Vision (Ethan Underwood) on May 20 to allow a conservation‑design community with 107 single‑family lots and related variances and conditions. Planning staff described a revised site plan that relocated the amenity area and added proffered conditions, including a 75‑foot buffer (50 feet undisturbed plus 25 feet replanted) along certain edges.

Zoning Administrator Mr. Trawick told the board the applicant reduced requests to avoid encroaching on primary conservation areas and added conditions to keep open space and to commit to maintenance of the development’s dam and pond. He also said the community would be age‑restricted: at least 80% of units would be occupied by residents age 55 and over, and homeowners’ covenants would limit rentals to no more than 10% of units. Commissioners asked for clarification about whether non‑55 owners would be allowed to have children; staff said the conditions effectively restrict occupancy by residents under 18 to stays of 90 days or less.

After discussion about tradeoffs between smaller lots and preserved green space, the chair moved to approve the rezoning with the requested concurrent variances and 20 conditions. The motion was seconded and carried unanimously.