Planning Board Recap – June 24, 2025. Tonight, the Planning Board heard three agenda items, each with a different level of complexity. Here’s what happened:

1️⃣ Minor Subdivision – Additional Unit on Single ParcelA straightforward request to add a second residential unit to an existing single-family parcel. This was a simple and sensible proposal, and it passed with no significant concerns or opposition.

2️⃣ Hazel Ridge Development Plan (formerly Tassel Ridge)Tonight, I voted in favor of the development plan, though I had previously voted against the rezoning of this project. • Located in the ETJ, adjacent to Duncan Ridge • Includes single-family detached homes, which we rarely see proposed outside of age-restricted communities anymore • Offers significant infrastructure upgrades: road widening, a new pump station, and radar-based speed signage • Creates pedestrian and vehicle connectivity with the neighboring communityAt the rezoning stage, I had concerns about the density, lot layout, and the unique shape of the parcel—even though it met ordinance requirements.Tonight’s vote focused on the development plan itself.The board voted 9–0 to approve the plan.

3️⃣ Amendment Request – Parcel Adjacent to Ting ParkThis was by far the most complex and debated agenda item.The parcel was originally approved in 2021—before I joined the board—with plans for a large commercial building and potentially a performing arts venue. Those plans shifted when the intended anchor tenant withdrew due to larger economic conditions.Tonight’s request was for an amendment to allow: • A smaller 75,000 sq ft office space, expected to be primarily medical • A partnership with DHIC to build 124 units of affordable housingThe staff recommendation was to deny the request. The Planning Board voted 8–1 to approve, and I voted in favor.This was not a simple decision. The project delivers two critical needs:

✅ Medical office space

✅ Affordable rental housingProjected rents are expected to fall between $1,200 and $1,700/month—which, if you bought a home here five years ago, might sound a lot like your mortgage.But that range also tells a deeper story about how much our town has changed.DHIC shared that average income in this area has increased 10% in the past year alone. That means Holly Springs is attracting high-income earners, and our land is growing more valuable every day.This town is desirable. People want to live here—and that’s a sign of success.That said, I—and some other members—would’ve preferred to see this exact project built somewhere else, so that the land next to Ting Park could be preserved for potential entertainment or cultural use.But this is the reality of governance:We often operate within factors outside our control—like land ownership, financing, and the complexities of subsidizing affordable housing.These decisions are rarely black and white—but I remain committed to thoughtful leadership and a balanced, forward-thinking approach to Holly Springs’ growth.