Minutes 12-01-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Craig Benedict said the requested 2 year extension would be adequate to address the abridged aspect of the sewer master plan and would allow for implementation. He said in this case Orange County is asking Durham to extend the agreement, so that is why this will be transmitted to them. Commissioner Pelissier said given the dramatic decrease in the proposed size of land to be serviced, she wonders if there has been discussion with economic development staff on whether it is worthwhile just to do 100 acres. Craig Benedict said yes, there have been discussions. He said as potential properties are offered to interested parties, all three development zones have been considered. He said some areas designated in the Eno have uses on them now. He said it is harder to show an underdeveloped property and suggest to a potential new business that the process may be to remove the underdeveloped area and develop it anew. He said staff is taking a look at the best area to focus on initially. Craig Benedict said he has spoken to Steve Brantley about the potential for this area, and the goal is to focus as much as possible on the most prime marketable areas. Steve Brantley said he speaks daily with planning department about prospects. He said staff has toured this economic development area, and these core 100 acres have the best potential for future development. He said at least two existing businesses on the Orange Durham County line are also expanding. Steve Brantley referred to the housing and trailer areas in the western part of the Eno EDD. He said he has not experienced industry coming in and forcing their way into that kind of environment, as there are too many other sites across the state that would not require that kind of relocation for residents. Craig Benedict said as with the Hillsborough and Efland Mebane small area plan, staff also conducted an Eno small area planning exercise in the mid-2000s. He said this was the background planning that the Planning Board, the Commissioners and the residents were involved with. Commissioner porosin said the summary is that the focus will be on a smaller area for infrastructure in an effort to lure economic development, and once this happens, this area will be turned over to the City of Durham for ownership, operation and maintenance. He said the City of Durham will and probably annex this area. He asked if this summary is correct. Craig Benedict said this is a correct summary. Commissioner Jacobs said of the three economic development districts, this Eno group was by far the most frustrated. He asked if the past members of the work group are being kept apprised of how things are changing. Craig Benedict said after the study was received, a pause was taken in the process. He said ideas are now being developed and staff will keep the board members involved and updated. RECOMMENDATION(S): A motion was made by Commissioner Jacobs seconded by Commissioner Rich for the Board to: 1. Approve the amendment; and 2. Authorize staff to transmit it to the City of Durham. VOTE: UNANIMOUS 8. Reports NONE