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Draft November 27, 1995 Public Hearing Minutes 9 <br /> III. FLEXIBLE DEVELOPMENT/OPEN SPACE PROPOSALS <br /> This item was presented by David Stancil to receive citizen comment on open <br /> space development strategies, including a staff generated Flexible Development Proposal. He <br /> reviewed the timeline for this project which began in December of 1993 with a work session <br /> between the governing boards of Orange County and Hillsborough. At that meeting it was <br /> agreed to establish the University Station Planning Group. As a result of the work by citizens <br /> and staff , three basic approaches have been recommended. They are: <br /> The Rural Character Study Committee recommendations; <br /> The "Status Quo"; and <br /> A "Cluster Option" incorporating a mandatory 50% open space requirement and density limits <br /> based on the carrying capacity of the soils. <br /> The Planning Staff has prepared a proposal which consists of three parts. The first section <br /> contains "Goals and Action Strategies" (as recommended by the Rural Character Study <br /> Committee). The second section contains a "Flexible Development" option. The "Flexible <br /> Development" option has been prepared in the format of an amendment to the Subdivision <br /> Regulations. This entire report is in the Permanent Agenda File in the Clerk's Office. <br /> QUESTIONS AND/OR COMMENTS FROM THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS <br /> David Stancil replied to a question from Commissioner Gordon. He stated that the <br /> convention and flexible development proposals would be considered together and either both of <br /> them would be approved or both of them would be denied. This will assure that the process is <br /> not used to mandate flexible development. <br /> Mary Willis noted that Concept Plan approval is the Planning Board's commitment that, if <br /> the Preliminary Plan comes in essentially the same as the Concept Plan, then the Planning <br /> Board will recommend approval. <br /> Commissioner Gordan asked if it would be necessary for developers to submit two plans, <br /> or could they submit only a flexible development proposal. If that happens, how would staff <br /> know how many lots to approve. <br /> David Stancil replied that if the developer intends to submit only a flexible development <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 />