2024.08.06 Planning Board of Adjustment

Woodfin Planning Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap: August 6, 2024

The Town of Woodfin’s Planning Board of Adjustment held its regular meeting on August 6, 2024, addressing key planning and development matters impacting our community. The meeting included introductions of new members, approval of prior minutes, administrative reviews of proposed developments, and a public hearing regarding a variance request. This recap provides an overview of the discussions and decisions made, highlighting their potential impact on Woodfin residents.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on two major development projects. First, the Board conducted an administrative review of a concept plan for the High Hopes Subdivision, a proposed 19-lot major subdivision located off Ben Lippin Road and Desperate Lane. This development, spearheaded by High Hopes of Asheville LLC and property owners Jan and Reese Lasser, will consist of detached single-family homes within the flexible zoning regulations of Mountain Village. The Board confirmed that the developer will collaborate with the community to address stormwater concerns and that access will be via Ben Lippin Road, avoiding potential issues at the intersection with Destination Drive. While no public comment or vote was required for this review, it marks a step forward in the development of new housing options within Woodfin.

The most substantial discussion and decision centered around a public hearing concerning a variance request from Pat Reagan, representing the Reynolds Mountain Property Owners Association and the Lake Town Lane Revocable Trust. The request involved increasing land disturbance and impervious surface limits for a property at 66 Lake Town Lane, aimed at facilitating stormwater drainage improvements. After extensive discussion regarding the scope of the variance and its impact on downstream residents, the Board unanimously approved the request with a crucial condition: it will be limited solely to the stormwater infrastructure project. This decision addresses ongoing flooding concerns for residents downhill and demonstrates the Board's commitment to addressing critical infrastructure needs.

Beyond specific project reviews, the meeting also included discussions on broader regulatory matters. Board members engaged in a conversation about how to classify businesses like breweries and marijuana dispensaries, ultimately agreeing they should be treated similarly to other retail establishments. Staff was also tasked with exploring options for regulating marijuana businesses, potentially through a separate zoning designation – a topic expected to be revisited in future meetings. The Board emphasized the importance of proactively addressing emerging issues and adapting regulations as needed to best serve Woodfin’s evolving needs.

What's Next?

• The developer of the High Hopes Subdivision will move forward with submitting a preliminary plat for review.
• Town staff will continue exploring options for regulating marijuana businesses, potentially leading to a future zoning update.
• Residents are encouraged to attend upcoming Planning Board meetings and engage in the planning process.

This meeting showcased the Town of Woodfin's ongoing commitment to managing growth and development responsibly, balancing progress with preserving our community’s unique character. The decisions made reflect a dedication to addressing resident concerns and ensuring that new developments contribute positively to the overall quality of life in Woodfin.