Agenda - 08-25-2008 - c1 - Laserfiche WebLink

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~~. 3 ,~~ Efland Commons Neighborhood Information Meeting .Notes July 15, 2008 @ 7:00 PM Food Lab -Planning & Agricultural Building Attendees: 15 residents from the neighborhood (4 arrived late and did not sign in) Planning Staff: Robert P. Davis, AICP Developer: Robert (Bob) Barrett representing School House Road Partners, LLC Consultants: Jonathan Bailey, Engineering Technician Mr. Robert Davis of the Planning Staff explained the purpose of the meeting, the developer's request and the process that the petition will follow. Mr. Davis stated that the petitioner/developer is asking for BOCC approval of the 45-lot subdivision/rezoning project. Mr. Davis further explained that the 45-lot subdivision plan cannot be approved unless the property is rezoned to the R-5 category that will increase the density allowed on the tract. The petitioner is allowed to petition for a higher density project because this land falls within the 10-year transition area, an area in the County designated as suitable for higher density based on location and services available. The proposed project will have a density of approximately 3.5 units per acre; current density is one unit per acre. Lot sizes are in the 5,000 - 9,400 square foot range with just under 40% open space on the site. All streets will be public. Mr. Bob Barrett, petitioner/developer, explained that they were attempting to develop a moderately priced, affordable neighborhood without any government or private group (e.g. Habitat for Humanity) financial assistance. Mr. Barrett stated that an added benefit for residents is that, unlike Habitat Homes, appreciation flows to the owner of the home, which over the years have appreciated. Mr. Barrett stated that their request is for 45 homes of between 1,400 to 1,700 square feet with garages. He stated that they would seek green certification although he was not sure of which particular certification he would pursue. (There are various standards now on `green' certification). He stated that all homes would be stick built homes and that they were trying to keep Homeowners Association (HOA) dues in the $10 per month range. He stated that Chapel Hill/Carrboro based EmPOWERment, Inc, aHUD-certified housing counseling agency, would receive a $500 per house donation and will be the chosen management group to head the HOA. EmPOWERment, Inc. would offer financial education and home ownership training courses to residents. He stated that USDA Mortgage assistance would be available to help homeowners obtain financing and that there will be restrictions against this becoming an investor neighborhood. Mr. Barrett stated that he was to close on the property within a short time.