The board first considered PB case 24-21, which proposed rezoning a 1.37-acre property on South State Road 19 from General Commercial (C1) to Intensive Commercial (C2). Previously the site of Woody’s Barbecue, the location is poised to host a new Bank of America branch with a drive-thru, permissible only under C2 zoning. A planner presented the case, emphasizing that the rezoning aligned with the area’s existing commercial designation and met all necessary standards. After opening the floor to board questions and public comment, both of which yielded no discussion, the board swiftly voted to approve the rezoning request unanimously.

The more complex discussion of the evening centered on PB case 24-23, involving a PUD application for 31 acres on St. John’s Avenue and MCL Drive. The proposal calls for up to 248 townhome units, with the site already zoned Residential 3 with a PUD overlay. The planner outlined that while the application met PUD standards and included plans for recreational areas, issues remained unresolved. Specifically, further details were needed on the screening of above-ground utilities and a legal opinion on covenants and restrictions.

Residents expressed various concerns during the public comment period, particularly about the preservation of trees and emergency access routes. A developer’s representative assured that existing trees on the northern parcel would be preserved wherever possible and mentioned ongoing collaboration with ETM on a tree survey. However, the southern parcel had already been timbered. The representative detailed that the development would maintain access from McClory Drive, a county-owned dirt road, to facilitate ingress and egress.

G. Neelson, a local resident, voiced concerns on behalf of neighbors, seeking clarification on the housing type and its proximity to his property. He expressed relief upon learning that the development would feature townhomes rather than low-income housing. Neelson received confirmation that the townhomes would be set back 40 feet from his property line and that a vinyl fence would likely be installed.

Another resident, Alra Kitchens, raised questions about emergency access, stressing the need for multiple entry and exit points for emergency vehicles. Assurances were given that improvements to McClory Drive would support emergency access, although wetlands would limit how far these improvements could extend.

Board members discussed incorporating more trees into the landscaping plan. Mr. Wallace suggested adding more vegetation beyond the project’s minimum requirements. Despite some initial hesitation, the board agreed to include this consideration in the approval motion. The motion, which also required the depiction of utility systems and screening of above-ground utilities, passed without opposition.

The meeting concluded with the adjournment motion, followed by an introduction of new planning staff members. As the session wrapped up, attendees were reminded to move a blue truck parked outside due to ongoing painting work.