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3 <br /> Alderman Gist said the abstract does not mention social justice impacts, but they do <br /> exist with this proposed project. She said the new buildings in downtown Carrboro are too <br /> expensive for the locals to purchase or lease, and this site provides affordable small business <br /> space. <br /> Alderman Slade echoed Alderman Gist's sentiments. He said this project also serves <br /> as a counterpoint to how economic development has always been done, and this is a way to <br /> support home grown, locally owned businesses, as opposed to bigger or national businesses. <br /> He encouraged the County to help support this type of economic development. <br /> Alderman Haven O'Donnell said she agreed with both Aldermen. She said Carrboro <br /> has always been a service-oriented economy. She said locals have to flee to outside areas, <br /> because they cannot afford downtown Carrboro. <br /> Commissioner Dorosin said this is an exciting proposal. <br /> Commissioner Dorosin referred to the map at the Commissioners' places, and said <br /> there is water and sewer going north of this site. He asked if it is known how far these lines <br /> go. <br /> Trish McGuire said the water line goes to Hillsborough, and the sewer line goes up to <br /> Morris Grove Elementary School. <br /> Commissioner Dorosin referred to the proposed commercial park, which would be <br /> home to businesses with little traffic, other than employees. He said Old Highway 86 has <br /> traffic anyway, and he would not feel as constrained with expanding economic development in <br /> this area, as he might in others. <br /> Commissioner Dorosin referred to the house in the area, which is intended for <br /> preservation, and asked if the condition of it is known. <br /> Trish McGuire said it is still in good enough condition that it could be renovated, but it <br /> has not been occupied for a number of years. <br /> Alderman Seils said there are other things occurring in that general area that is allowing <br /> for some commercial development. He asked if Trish McGuire could explain what kind of re- <br /> zoning would have been required if a public works facility had been pursued on this property. <br /> Trish McGuire said public works is a Town owned and operated facility, and is a <br /> permissible use in the RR zoning district. She said she is fairly certain this would not require <br /> any rezoning. <br /> Alderman Seils asked if rezoning would be required for something like the proposed <br /> commercial park. <br /> Trish McGuire said one of the zoning districts that was created for the northern study <br /> area plan implementation is an office assembly zoning district. She said up to 10% could be <br /> retail, but it is intended as a light manufacturing and office type of use. <br /> Commissioner Rich asked if this piece of property is now part of Carrboro, or does it <br /> have to be annexed. <br /> Trish McGuire said it is not in the Town limits at the present time, but it is in the Town's <br /> planning jurisdiction and the Town would expect annexation. <br /> Commissioner Pelissier asked if details have been fleshed out as to how to make, and <br /> keep, this flex space affordable. <br /> Trish McGuire said this information can be provided to the Board. <br /> Commissioner Pelissier asked if the types of light manufacturing that would be allowed <br /> there have been discussed. <br /> Mayor Lavelle said a general discussion has occurred. She said an artisan component <br /> has been suggested for this project as well. She said this will be fleshed out with the RFP. <br /> Commissioner Jacobs said he applauded this idea, but he has some concerns <br /> regarding land use and cost benefit. He said a long-range plan for this area has not been <br />