They were seeking the commissioners to deny Westminister Properties annexation and a zoning request for R-10 (residential single family) to build 27 patio and garden homes on 7.3 acres on James Road.
The commissioners, in the business session, approved the annexation and rezoning of the properties. The best they could do was rezone the properties to R-12, similar to the surrounding properties, thus allowing for less density for the dwellings. A 1.2 acre parcel, owned by the city, that adjoins the property was zoned S-1.
There was little suspense with the annexation of four parcels at I-85 and Hwy. 14 where the former Stuckey’s is located. Spartanburg Regional Hospital is planning a beautification program at that location and an electronic digital sign for the medical facility. Stuckey’s will be razed in the process.
A Gibbs Shoals development, a 36-unit housing project on 8.46 acres at East Suber Road and Gibbs Shoals Road, sailed through with its report to commissioners adding more details. Paul Harrison, of Bluewater Civil Design, said the development is a massive grading undertaking. The patio-type homes will range in the $250,000-$350,000 range.
Commissioners were unanimous in approving all three items. Don Jones, Judy Jones, Brian Martin, Chris Harrison and commissioner Morris Burton affirmed the recommendations of the City Planning and Zoning department. Clay Jones and Susan Traenkle were absent.
During the break from the public session, commissioners huddled in a corner discussing the rezoning of the James Road property. Chris Harrison calculated the R-12 zoning would result in 21 units versus the 25 that would exist under a R-10.
The commissioners listened and patiently responded to each individual’s comments wanting to deny Westminister Properties the ability to build homes on James Road.
Juha Parkkohen, the developer, said the two-story homes would be designed Charleston-style with porches with prices ranging from $225,000 to $250,000. That description soothed one resident’s concern the project would be a Section 8 community with subsidized housing.
Most of the residents present were arguing the ability of James Road to handle the additional traffic. “I don’t see how you can put 27 houses there and not have an issue with traffic. There is one entry off James Road,” said Phil Kuhlke. “I have to get as close to the shoulder as I can to let cars pass.”
Gene Fowler, a resident for 20 years on James Road, said the road led to drivers speeding and losing control of their vehicles rounding a corner. He brought his two grown children to the meeting. “I never let those kids ride their bikes down that road,” Fowler said. “It’s used as a shortcut to Brushy Creek and it is a dangerous road. There is a great elevation and drop on that road. I’m concerned about everybody who lives down that hill and up that hill.
“Questions I have are will the speed limit be looked at? Are sidewalks going to be looked at? And is the road going to be widened? These are the things I’m concerned with putting 27 houses on a small piece of property.”
At the end of the public session two residents fist-bumped in satisfaction of making their points.