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14 <br /> proposal there is no need to prepare a conventional concept plan. There is also an exemption <br /> for developments that involve affordable housing units. The development of a "Yield Plan", <br /> using either a soil survey or random site testing of 10-15% of the site, is still a part of the <br /> process and determines the number of lots permitted. The Yield Plan also utilizes existing <br /> zoning. The options available are to use existing soil maps developed as part of the Soil <br /> Survey, or actual site testing, working with the soil scientists in Environmental Health. <br /> A motion was made by Commissioner Gordon, seconded by Commissioner Willhoit, to <br /> extend the meeting until 11:00 p.m. <br /> VOTE: UNANIMOUS <br /> QUESTIONS AND/OR COMMENTS BY THE PLANNING BOARD <br /> Planning Board Member Karen Barrows commented that she is disappointed by the <br /> provisions concerning low and moderate income housing. She felt that it sent the wrong <br /> message and was perhaps even discriminatory to allow developers of such projects to submit <br /> only a conventional plan. <br /> QUESTIONS AND/OR COMMENTS BY CITIZENS <br /> John Roger, a resident of Hideaway Drive, felt that the Flexible Development Plan does <br /> not give adequate attention to sources of water. He mentioned his concern to Commissioner <br /> Gordon earlier in the year, and she said that staff was studying water resources in the County <br /> to clarify the status of the aquifers that exist in the area. He noted, in particular, that the <br /> proposal does not give enough attention to water resources. Attention is given to how to <br /> dispose of the water after it is used but not to where the water is going to come from. He is <br /> concerned that cluster development will result in well failures. <br /> Jay Zaragoza spoke against the portion of the proposal which would allow multiple <br /> homes to be connected to a community sewage disposal system. He stated that the history of <br /> these systems is one of failure, and often necessitates bailout by the County. He spoke in <br /> support of the overall plan but asked that this portion be eliminated. <br /> Nick Tennyson, Executive Vice-President of the Home Builders Association of Durham- <br /> Orange County, stated that he was impressed with the positive tone of the document. He <br /> asked that the County keep in mind that the complexity of rules could result in higher costs. He <br /> also asked for assurance that the Board of Commissioners, Planning Board and Staff will stay <br /> in communication with other county departments, especially Environmental Health, who <br /> oversee different aspects of the regulation process. <br /> Bob Strayhorn stated that he was 100% in favor of the proposal. He commended staff <br /> on the good work that they did. He felt that the rural landowners will accept the plan, and it <br /> would encourage protection of open space as well as affordable homes. <br /> John Hartwell, spoke in support of the plan. He likes the voluntary nature. He <br /> commended the Commissioners on their leadership in this matter. <br />