FROM STAFF REPORTS

The City of Statesville Planning Board on Tuesday recommended approval of a request to rezone a 364-acre tract for the proposed Holland Farms development.

Residents who live near the site of the proposed development packed Statesville City Hall to express their opposition to the project. During the public hearing, more than a dozen residents told planning board members that the massive development, which originally included plans for more than 1,000 units, would destroy the rural character of their community, compromise their safety and overwhelm area roads.

The original plan called for 650 single-family homes, 160 townhomes, 310 multi-family apartment units and approximately 12,800-square-feet of retail space.

The developer, JJM Realty Partners of New Jersey, said the $320 million project would create 3,833 jobs and generate $55 million in taxes and other revenue related to construction.

The neighbors were adamant about their objection to the apartment units, many were opposed to the retail development, and a few even objected to plans for parks and walking trails. The proposed 24/7 police substation only proved the development would bring crime to the neighborhood, they argued.

The developer agreed Tuesday night to remove the apartments from the proposal.

While the neighbors opposed the project, they praised the developer for listening to their concerns. After two community meetings that drew more than 500 residents, the developer worked with a small group of residents and listened to their concerns.

The planning board voted 3-2 to recommend approval of the rezoning. The request includes 27 conditions, including restrictions on building materials, land for a city park, land for a school if Iredell-Statesville Schools wants the property, and more.

The rezoning request and application for annexation must be approved by the Statesville City Council.

If the project receives final approval, the City of Statesville would provide sewer service, EnergyUnited would supply electricity, and either EnergyUnited or Iredell Water Corp. would provide water.