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Discussion on new subdivision draws standing-room-only crowd to meeting

 

COLUMBUS—The Town of Columbus hosted its monthly Board of Planning and Adjustment meeting on Monday, March 10, drawing an overflow crowd to the Womack Building. 

Residents from Columbus and across Polk County gathered to voice strong opposition against the Enchanted Construction Services Subdivision, which is proposed for development at the intersection of Fox Mountain Road and Highway 108, behind the Milliken plant and adjacent to the upcoming YMCA facility.

The meeting, which began promptly at 6 p.m., began with the tabling of approval of the minutes from the previous regular meeting. The meeting was supposed to be followed by a presentation regarding the subdivision from the developer; however, the representative for the developer was absent as more time was needed to adjust the proposal, receive critical sewer and water studies and complete the endangered species report.

This left ample time for public comments, where 25 residents took to the podium to express their concerns in three-minute intervals. The overwhelming sentiment was one of discontent regarding the proposed development, with speakers highlighting issues of increased traffic, overcrowding in local schools, potential environmental harm, and runoff into White Oak Creek, which traverses the property.

Residents forcefully articulated their opposition, receiving enthusiastic applause after each statement against the development. One attendee decried the plan, noting, “Developers didn’t show up tonight… We don’t want it!” Another speaker raised concerns about the impact on local infrastructure and services, pointing out that taxes were already a burden on families in the area.

While many voices echoed a common plea for conservation and slow, deliberate development, a single speaker voiced support for the need for additional housing in the area.

Board members responded to the crowded room, acknowledging the community’s concerns. Board Member Ernie Khan questioned Preston Janco, a representative from the Foothills Regional Commission, about the feasibility of a contract with the builder to mitigate the town’s costs. Janco offered that this was a matter for the county attorney and council to take up.

Janco, as a senior planner at the Foothills Planning and Development Commission, serves the counties of Polk, Cleveland, McDowell, and Rutherford by offering support to local governments through collaboration, technical guidance, and community development initiatives. He was present to provide his expertise, ensuring that towns and counties navigate potential legal liabilities effectively while clarifying zoning laws and regulations for the volunteer-led local boards.

Board member Virginia Green clarified the planning board’s role, emphasizing their commitment to the community. She assured the room, which sometimes took exception to the lack of emotion from the board, by explaining that everyone on the board shared just as much love for Columbus. However, she explained that the planning board is a recommending body that advises the Town Council on land use and development. As long as the developer follows the rules and laws in the Unified Development Ordinance, the board must pass the final decision onto the Columbus Town Council. 

This explanation was met with mixed reactions, as some residents expressed frustration over the board’s limitations.

Board Member Marshall Watkins further affirmed the board’s dedication, assuring attendees that they shared a deep love for the town of Columbus and aimed to make decisions in the best interest of its residents.

The discussion surrounding the Enchanted Construction Services Subdivision is set to continue at the next Board of Planning & Adjustment meeting scheduled for Monday, April 7, at 6 p.m. at the Womack Building.