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Developers pitch 220‑unit Independence East project; commission splits on rezoning commercial land
Summary
Lewis Land Developers presented a study session for a 15.18‑acre site (Independence East) proposing 110 duplexes (220 units) and requested guidance on changing regional commercial/industrial designations to medium‑density residential; commissioners expressed mixed views about precedent, school capacity and retaining commercial land while some favored adding rooftops to support local retail.
At study session the commission heard a nonbinding presentation for “Independence East,” a proposed 15.18‑acre residential project that would require amendments to the general plan, the Northeast Quadrant specific plan and zoning designations to allow 110 duplex structures (220 units) and associated amenities.
Rob White of Lewis Land Developers outlined the product and fiscal case, arguing that long‑standing difficulty attracting large retail tenants makes a residential reuse more viable and that adding rooftops can support existing retailers nearby. “Our project would bring in a valuation of about a 100,000,000,” White said, and he projected increased property tax, CFD and impact‑fee revenue as well as incremental retail spending that could benefit businesses at the nearby Walmart/Grocery Outlet node.
Public commenters and several commissioners pushed back on rezoning commercial/industrial land, warning that converting employment land to housing could set a precedent and reduce future jobs and industrial opportunities in the city’s Northeast Quadrant. Labor representatives asked the developer to commit to local labor standards and apprenticeship opportunities if construction proceeds. Commissioners also requested more analysis on traffic, school capacity on the east side of SR‑113 and whether the project’s access and circulation details should be revised.
