Orange County NC Website
Curtis Bane said that maintaining the current character while protecting vistas and buffers was a part of <br />his vision. He suggested that members of this work group read the Economic Development District (EDD) <br />guildelines. This is a good plan. The introduction of water and sewer into a neo- traditional setting would <br />greately increase density, however, the homes would be affordable. It is important to create affordable housing <br />so that young families can remain in Orange County. <br />Lee Rafalow stated that maintaining small agricultural operations is one of the outcomes he would like to <br />see for this community. <br />Bob Strayhorn indicated that he supported the Rural Character Study Report. The voluntary aspect of the <br />Study was critical to its success. A part of his vision would be for low density. <br />Judd Edeburn questioned how anticipated development would affect the current transportation corridors. <br />At what point would roads need to be widened and traffic lights added. Those events will greatly affect the <br />character of the region. He suggested looking at existing density and commercial development trends and <br />continue those trends. <br />Bob Strayhom felt that the landowners around the interchanges are limited in what can be done with <br />their land. With the right kind of plan, it would be possible for them to develop their land in a way that was not <br />detrimental to the community. He suggested development options be provided that would be in keeping with the <br />existing character. <br />Bill Bracey mentioned that a completely voluntary plan for the community would be great, however, <br />experience suggests that some regulations will be necessary. It is important that a workable plan be the outcome <br />of this work group's efforts. Staff could present a report defining exactly what a small area plan could <br />accomplish. It is important that this group receive proper guidance from County staff so that it does not come up <br />with a plan that cannot be implemented without regulations which are unrealistic. <br />Gene Bell mentioned that if nothing is done thru this process, the current plan will stay in effect. Several <br />months ago he distributed information explaining what the different classifications meant and how they <br />translated into zoning, etc. The students' Conventional Development Plan of one or two acre lots is what would <br />probably be the outcome for the areas on the map that were highlighted in yellow. The green areas would be <br />two acre lots. The northwest portion could be a denser type of development due to the possiblity of water and <br />sewer being extended into that area. <br />Renee Price suggested that the group consider what they would envision 5 and 10 years down the road. <br />Also, it would be helpful to consider what types of development is happening in surrounding areas. There are <br />alternatives to the traditional land control methods. It is possible to plan for a community without establishing <br />restrictive rules. <br />Verla Insko commented that there appeared to be general agreement about what the group likes. It is not <br />important to discuss those further. Now it is possible to discuss the mechanism for getting there. <br />Lee Rafalow suggested that a map be created for the next meeting which would display the different <br />types of development that the group as a whole envisions. <br />Irene VanDyke felt that everyone's needs could be met if the 1 and 5 acre plans were abandoned and <br />cluster development is encouraged. <br />