2024.03.05 PBOA Meeting Video

Woodfin PBOA Meeting Recap: Rezoning Discussions & Affordable Housing Progress (March 5, 2024)

On March 5th, the Woodfin Planning Board of Appeals (PBOA) held a meeting focused primarily on two significant rezoning requests, both with potential impacts for Woodfin residents. The meeting was well-attended and featured robust discussion regarding the proposed changes, demonstrating a strong community interest in shaping Woodfin's future. While no final decisions were made on either request, the meeting provided valuable insights into potential developments and next steps.

The first major topic centered around a conditional zoning request from Jack Ryan, LLC for their property at 64 Washington Avenue. The company seeks to rezone the land from Residential (R10) to either Community Shopping (CS) or Light Industrial to accommodate a 6,000-square-foot office addition. Concerns were raised by residents and the Board regarding potential traffic increases, lighting pollution (particularly with LED fixtures), and the impact on the quiet residential neighborhood. The applicant acknowledged these concerns, proposing solutions like removing asphalt to create a buffer zone and establishing a 50-foot vegetative buffer for privacy and sound mitigation. The Board expressed support for exploring these options, agreeing to work with Jack Ryan, LLC over the next two weeks to refine potential conditions for approval. This collaborative approach aims to address community concerns while allowing the business expansion.

The second, and arguably more impactful, topic was a rezoning request from Sri Harry Krupa, LLC for their 7.84-acre parcel at 9999 Reynolds Mountain Boulevard. The proposal involves rezoning from Community Shopping (CS) to CS2-CZ (Conditional Zoning) to construct a 120-unit apartment complex dedicated entirely to affordable housing, catering to residents earning 80% or less of the area median income. This project is particularly noteworthy as it includes a 30-year affordability commitment, ensuring long-term access to affordable housing within Woodfin. The Board engaged in a discussion regarding income verification processes and the potential impact of construction and operations on Reynolds Mountain Boulevard, clarifying that the developer will be responsible for road repairs. While supportive of the project’s goals in addressing the critical need for affordable housing, the Board discussed potential conditions related to buffering and design compatibility with surrounding properties.

What This Means for You: These discussions highlight Woodfin’s ongoing efforts to balance economic development with community well-being. The proposed Jack Ryan, LLC expansion will be closely scrutinized to minimize neighborhood disruption, while the Sri Harry Krupa, LLC project represents a significant step towards providing much-needed affordable housing options for Woodfin residents.

What Happens Next: Both projects are now headed to the Woodfin Town Council for final consideration. Residents can expect further opportunities to provide input as these matters progress through the approval process. Jack Ryan, LLC will be working with the town over the next two weeks to finalize buffer zone details.

Stay Informed: The Board will continue to monitor both projects and ensure compliance with all regulations. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding Town Council meetings where these matters will be discussed and voted upon. Your participation in this process is vital to ensuring Woodfin continues to thrive as a vibrant and inclusive community.