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Commission gets 'sniff test' on 100-unit workforce-housing proposal; no formal application yet
Summary
Town manager told commissioners a developer is exploring constructing about 100 townhouse workforce-housing units inside Onancock; commissioners asked for location, visuals, zoning details and an application before taking a formal position.
Town manager Matt described a separate proposal from a different developer for about 100 townhouse workforce-housing units within the town limits and said the owner is "eager to sell" but wants to know if the town will be receptive before investing in detailed plans.
Commissioners stressed that no formal application or site plan had been submitted and that zoning changes (for example, a change to an R-2 multi-unit zone) would likely be required. "We need an application," one commissioner said, and members requested location-specific plans, visual renderings and clarity on sidewalks, access, and whether parcel subdivision rules would trigger more extensive utility and sidewalk requirements. Several commissioners expressed openness to workforce housing in principle but emphasized the need for details and for formal process steps (application, zoning review, public hearing) before granting any approvals.
Matt said developers could save legal fees by not pursuing detailed plans if the commission gave a clear "no" but that he would encourage them to submit an application; the commission agreed to receive any application and evaluate it under the town's zoning and subdivision rules.
