Commission presses developer questions on NVF plan, affordable housing, traffic and environment

Kennett Square Planning Commission members and public attendees spent substantial time reviewing the NVF property development, identifying unresolved issues on affordable housing, HOA responsibilities, traffic and parking, refuse storage, and environmental protections.

The commission discussed establishing a proportional formula for affordable units tied to total units, referencing inclusionary zoning models; the Chair was assigned to "propose an affordable housing formula for review." Commissioners also sought clarification on homeowners association responsibilities and common-area maintenance to avoid conflicts between apartment residents and HOA members.

Traffic-flow and access received attention: members raised concerns about limited access points and urged better connectivity and compliance with SALDO (subdivision and land development ordinance) requirements. Commissioners questioned parking adequacy and guest parking management and noted these topics would be addressed as part of the SALDO review.

Public attendees highlighted environmental concerns such as tree preservation and stormwater management; the commission noted these environmental and stormwater issues will be addressed during the SALDO process. Staff were tasked to check whether planning documents can be made publicly accessible and to report back.

Next procedural steps: the commission will collect meeting notes, members will send questions to the Chair within two weeks, and the Chair will present compiled questions to the developer at the August meeting.