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existing flooding and drainage issues on her property,recalling a severe water main break that <br /> caused extensive flooding. She worried that additional homes would worsen the problem unless <br /> the city fully replaced aging water and sewer lines along Butternut Ridge Road. <br /> Developer Rick added that the project represented roughly a$20 million investment,with <br /> anticipated home prices around$450,000.He stated that new tax revenue from the development <br /> could help fund infrastructure improvements such as water line replacement and potential storm <br /> sewer installation.He emphasized that the team had previously hosted a community meeting at <br /> the library, invited residents to share feedback, and remained open to further dialogue. <br /> Residents Who Spoke: <br /> • Yvette Bovard—25976 Butternut Ridge Road <br /> • Priscilla Wiles—25746 Butternut Ridge Road <br /> Residents voiced continued concern about the density and location of the proposed 45-home <br /> development within the historic district, emphasizing that while the plan itself was well- <br /> designed, it was incompatible with the area's single-family, large-lot character. They cited <br /> worsening traffic,potential road widening, and loss of neighborhood charm as major issues. <br /> Priscilla Wiles questioned whether homes priced between$450,000 and$600,000 aligned with <br /> the city's goals of creating affordable housing,referencing local school data showing a high <br /> percentage of economically disadvantaged families. <br /> The commission confirmed that the submittal was a preliminary plan and clarified that any <br /> approval at this stage would only advance the project to the next level of review,with the <br /> possibility of amendments later. Staff explained the city's notice requirements,noting that <br /> abutting property owners were notified for the preliminary plan and that a broader 1,000-foot <br /> notification would occur for`the upcoming rezoning hearing. It was also confirmed that the <br /> project would need to obtain a certificate of appropriateness from the Landmarks Commission, <br /> and that new construction within the historic district is permitted under current code. <br /> The purpose of the preliminary approval was described as a means to provide early feedback, <br /> allowing the developer to justify further investment in design and engineering work without any <br /> guarantees of final approval. One commissioner who lives on Butternut Ridge raised concerns <br /> about traffic and stormwater impacts, asked about the future of the Biddulph House—which <br /> would be restored and sold—and sought clarification on HOA responsibilities,with city trash <br /> collection and HOA-managed snow removal. Commissioners also discussed opportunities for <br /> stronger buffering and landscaping to help the development blend into the area. <br /> Suggestions were made to consider design adjustments, such as placing single-family homes <br /> along the frontage,relocating the pocket park, and incorporating permeable pavers. The <br /> developer expressed openness to exploring those ideas. Staff reiterated that existing traffic issues <br /> in the area predated the project and that the expected traffic from this development was too <br /> minimal to require a full traffic study. The commission acknowledged that while the city's <br /> master plan encourages diverse housing options,the location within a historic district made <br /> community sensitivity essential, and members encouraged further engagement with residents <br /> 4 <br />