May 14, 2025 | Buncombe County Board of Adjustment Meeting

Buncombe County Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap – May 14, 2025

On May 14, 2025, the Buncombe County Board of Adjustment convened to address a Special Use Permit (SUP) application and discuss ongoing concerns regarding meeting attendance. While the meeting was initially intended to address both SUP requests and variance matters, a challenge arose early on: insufficient attendance meant the Board could only proceed with reviewing the SUP application. Members present for variance-related items were excused, and staff acknowledged a communication breakdown that led to the attendance issue, pledging improved notification procedures moving forward.

The primary focus of the meeting was a review of the Special Use Permit (SUP) application, ZPH 2025-0006, submitted by Marc Anbach with MA Brevard Road LLC for Creekside Community Phase 2, located at 311 Creekside Trail Lane. This application sought modifications to building locations, unit types, lot sizes, interior setbacks, and parking within a previously approved Planned Unit Development (PUD) Level 1. A significant element of the proposed changes involves transitioning Creekside Community from a rental property to one offering individual home ownership lots. While the total unit count remains unchanged at 178, adjustments were necessary to accommodate this shift. Scott Burwell from McGill Associates testified as an expert witness, explaining how the proposed changes align with PUD standards and maintain the property's consistent residential use. Following discussion, the Board unanimously approved the SUP with conditions recommended by County staff. These conditions include submitting preliminary and as-built subdivision applications, reviewing a draft final plat with unique pin numbers for each lot before submitting a master site plan permit, and constructing the project according to the approved site plan.

Beyond the SUP review, a significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing concerns about quorum attendance, particularly regarding variance matters. Board members expressed frustration with the lack of a full quorum, highlighting that inadequate notification contributed to the problem. The Board agreed to explore options for improving communication protocols and potentially adjusting quorum requirements, referencing relevant state laws and county ordinances. This discussion underscores the Board's commitment to ensuring all agenda items can be addressed effectively and efficiently.

What’s Next & Why It Matters: The approval of the Creekside Community Phase 2 SUP signifies a significant development for residents in that area, enabling the transition to home ownership within the community. Residents can expect further updates as the applicant fulfills the conditions of approval, including submitting required applications and adhering to the approved site plan. Furthermore, County staff will investigate options for addressing quorum attendance concerns and improve communication practices to prevent similar issues in the future. Residents interested in variance matters will need to attend a rescheduled meeting on June 11, 2025. A follow-up email will be sent to all Board members regarding the meeting’s events and concerns.

This meeting highlighted the County's ongoing commitment to managing development within Buncombe County while addressing internal operational challenges.