Board of Adjustment Meeting | Dec. 10, 2025

Buckham County Board of Adjustment Approves Affordable Housing Project

The Buckham County Board of Adjustment convened on December 10, 2025, welcoming new members Tom Belt, Mark DS, and Dana Alley. The meeting primarily focused on a proposal for a new mobile home park, ultimately resulting in the approval of a special use permit that will bring much-needed affordable housing options to the Emma community.

The central discussion revolved around ZPH 2025-00034, a plan presented by Carolina Engineering and Development for a 13-unit mobile home park located at 14 Oak Moss Lane. Representing the applicant, Andrea Golden of Bollard Emma emphasized that this project isn't just about building homes; it’s a unique cooperative housing model designed to provide permanently affordable, resident-owned housing. Laura Gourley, an appraiser, presented analysis indicating the development would not negatively impact surrounding property values. A key point of discussion centered on ensuring compliance with county ordinances, particularly regarding driveway permits and retaining wall construction. The Board also addressed a potential encroachment issue, which will be resolved through an easement agreement with the adjacent property owner. Importantly, clarification was provided regarding the "affordable" designation, confirming it means housing costs capped at 30% of the Emma community's median income – a key factor ensuring long-term affordability.

Following extensive discussion, the Board unanimously approved the special use permit for Oak Moss Mobile Home Park. The approval is contingent upon several conditions, including recombining the properties before submitting a master site plan, adhering to the approved construction plans, securing a DOT driveway permit, ensuring retaining walls meet county standards (or remain below 10 feet), and providing recreational space as determined by the residents themselves. The Board also approved the minutes from their previous meeting and adjourned following a motion and second.

Two other items were on the agenda but did not proceed as planned. ZPH 2025-00032 (Via Variance) was approved for a continuance to January, and ZPH 2025-00041 (Assad Variance) was indefinitely continued due to applicant absence and outstanding fees.

What This Means for Buckham County Residents: The approval of the Oak Moss Mobile Home Park represents a significant step towards addressing the need for affordable housing in Buckham County. This project, with its focus on resident ownership and community involvement, aims to provide a high quality of life for residents while ensuring long-term affordability. Residents can expect the project to move forward with the next steps involving property recombination and master site plan submission.