BY DONNA SWICEGOOD
Some neighbors affected by an annexation request for a proposed 160-home development said they were not properly notified of a public hearing by the developer and the City of Statesville and expressed concerns about the development.
The proposed development is to be located on Arey Road and Buffalo Shoals Road. The first reading of an ordinance for annexation for that property was heard by the Statesville City Council Monday.
Angela Matthews said since a meeting in October when the issue was discussed two additional landowners said they did not receive a mailed notice of the hearing.
“Again I want the council to know that there are and have not been any prominently posted notice of these hearings on the proposed site,” she said.
Matthews said there was also a discrepancy between what was posted on the public notices and the city’s website regarding the time of the hearing.
“It’s difficult to voice one’s concerns once the hearing has already taken place,” she said.
City attorney Leah Messick said the city mailed letters concerning the hearing.
One of the big issues with this project, according to Matthews, is safety. The city would have to provide some emergency services if the property is annexed.
“I do not believe it is prudent to add additional homes if we are not able to provide these services now,” she said.
School capacity is also a concern, Matthews added. “Four of the six schools in this area are at or above student capacity,” she said.
Meanwhile, Amy Steele said the access point for the proposed development is dangerous.
Voting on the first reading of the annexation was postponed until November 18
Meanwhile, a public hearing regarding the rezoning of the property to R-8 (Medium Density Residential) is scheduled for December 2. The site is currently zoned R-20 (Single Family Residential) District.
City Planner Christopher Hooper said city staff recommends approval of the rezoning request.
OTHER BUSINESS
In other business, the council:
♦ Approved the first reading of an ordinance to condemn an abandoned, dilapidated structure at 1323 Caldwell Street.