STEVENS POINT, Wis. (WSAU) — A new proposed subdivision drew about 50 nearby neighbors to a public hearing Monday. They expressed concerns about a request for changing the zoning for Riverwood West Subdivision, off West River Drive in Stevens Point.
City Community Development Director Michael Ostrowski says developer William Pritchard asked for the change from single family “R-2” zoning to Single and Two-Family “R-3” status. He says Pritchard could proceed now with single family homes. “The developer now is looking to rezone that area to have the potential to add twin homes if the market so demands, but right now, yes, they could construct a subdivision and pull the permits. Everything has been platted, so they could move forward at this time.”
Pritchard is looking for flexibility, so that if “twin homes” are desired, they could be built. Twin homes are different from duplexes, as twin homes share a lot line and each has its own plot of land.
Many residents spoke about water drainage concerns, having two much density for the one access road, and also about the large concentration of wildlife in the existing undeveloped woods. It was also clear some residents would prefer the land was not developed at all. Ostrowski says that’s to be expected. “Anytime you have a wooded area that is developed, there is some concerns, typically coming from adjacent residents.”
The city’s Plan Commission voted 3-3, so the issue will be forwarded to the common council without endorsement. Ostrowski says the city staff is in favor of the zoning change. “The staff has recommended in favor of the rezoning change, based off the analysis that we do with the consistency of our comprehensive plan, making sure that there aren’t any incompatible land uses. We have some manufacturing areas to the north, so it does provide the opportunity to provide a buffer, but it will go to the common council at the regularly scheduled meeting.”
Pritchard has developed several of the nearby subdivisions, and assures neighbors he wouldn’t build something that would lower their property values or cause wetland issues.
