Published: November 06, 2009 10:35 pm      

Complex geared to seniors clears first hurdle

LEWISBURG — A 32-unit apartment complex geared toward a graying population cleared the first hurdle Thursday evening as the planning commission voted unanimously to recommend city council rezone the 2.2-acre parcel.

Located off U.S. 219 on the northern edge of town, the site is owned by Northridge Properties LLC, represented at Thursday’s public hearing by Charlie Long and Bill Irons.

The two are seeking rezoning of the parcel from Industrial-Commercial (I-C) to a high density residential designation (R-2).

Mark Etten, who represents city council on the planning commission, pointed out the comprehensive plan shows a light industrial use for the property and questioned the wisdom of changing the zoning away from I-C.

Planner Linda Terek Ball countered the plan also encourages the construction of housing that targets senior citizens, as this project does.

Planner Jim Simpson noted planning professionals always like to designate “good land” for industrial use in order to boost economic development. Unfortunately, industries are not exactly clamoring to use the property in question, he said, adding, “The industrial designation was never intended to prohibit a lesser use.”

Ken Tubbs, the city’s zoning officer, advised the planners the lot is located in an area atop cave systems, making industrial development even more unlikely due to the increased cost of construction.

Long confirmed Tubbs’ assessment, saying four or five industries had expressed interest in the site, but backed off when they learned of the underlying karst topography.

“Quite honestly, folks, they’re scared to death of it,” Long told the planners.

Another issue negatively affecting industrial use is the parcel’s distance from the main traffic artery.

“We can’t find ... an industry that wants to locate 1,000 feet off 219,” Long said.

The planning commission also unanimously voted to send a final plat of the parcel to city council for approval.

Mayor John Manchester said both issues will be on the agenda for council’s Nov. 17 regular meeting.

The planning commission will hold working sessions on Nov. 19 and Dec. 2, both at 5:15 p.m. at city hall. The agency’s next regular session is set for 7 p.m. Dec. 3.