2022.02.01 PB Meeting

Woodfin Planning Board Meeting Recap: February 1, 2022

On February 1st, the Woodfin Planning Board convened to discuss key development proposals and a significant update to the town's zoning regulations. The meeting, attended by members of the Planning Board and representatives from the development community, focused primarily on a text amendment to the zoning ordinance and a preliminary plat application for a new development along Goodman Road/Riverside Drive. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps for Woodfin residents.

A major focus of the meeting was a proposed change to the town's zoning ordinance, specifically Section 54-156. Currently, larger developments – those with 20 or more dwelling units or over 30,000 square feet of commercial/industrial space – would now be required to go through the conditional zoning process. This means that these larger projects will face additional scrutiny and provide more opportunities for community input, particularly regarding potential traffic impacts. The Planning Board unanimously voted (4-0) to approve this amendment, recommending that the Woodfin Board of Commissioners adopt it. This change aims to provide greater oversight and ensure larger developments align with the town's vision for responsible growth.

Beyond the zoning amendment, the board also reviewed a preliminary plat application for Phase 1 of a development on Goodman Road/Riverside Drive. This phase includes plans for 37 lots across 6.37 acres, aiming for a density of approximately 2.64 units per acre within the Mountain Village zoning district. While this proposal represents a significant reduction in density compared to a previously approved, larger development on the same property, it still sparked considerable discussion. The board ultimately voted to recommend approval of this preliminary plat to the Board of Commissioners, moving the project forward in the development process. A revised Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) will be required to reflect this reduced density, and developers are also tasked with submitting a stormwater management plan to Buncombe County.

Throughout the meeting, residents shared their concerns about the potential impacts of development on Woodfin. Public comments centered around traffic congestion, particularly on Riverside Drive, as well as worries about the strain on local schools, potential environmental impacts to wildlife and water quality, and overall community safety. One resident emphasized the need for greater transparency and communication throughout the development process. Developers, represented by Jason Gilland, assured the board of their commitment to minimizing environmental impact and adhering to all regulations.

Looking ahead, several key action items will shape the future of these projects. The developers must now submit a revised TIA and a stormwater management plan. Both the text amendment to the zoning ordinance and the preliminary plat for Phase 1 of the Goodman Road/Riverside Drive development will be forwarded to the Woodfin Board of Commissioners for final decision-making. Finally, town officials indicated they will explore improved communication channels with the Mountain Brook Sewer District and Woodfin Water to better coordinate infrastructure planning. This meeting highlighted a commitment from the Planning Board to balance growth with community concerns, ensuring that development decisions thoughtfully consider the long-term well-being of Woodfin.