Rogers approves multi-family zoning

ROGERS -- The Planning Commission approved rezoning 22 acres to allow multi-family housing after hearing numerous concerns from residents Tuesday.

Specialized Real Estate Group proposes building a complex on the site southwest of Horsebarn Lane and Horsebarn Road. It could house up to 300 units.

The complex will include two-, three- and four-level apartment buildings, according to plans. It also will include amenities such as trails, a community building and pool.

Bill Watkins represented Specialized Real Estate Group, the developer, during the meeting. He said 63 percent of the project will be green space. Thick tree lines on three sides of the complex will be preserved, he said. Trees also will be prominent in the project including throughout parking lots.

There are three multi-family complexes near the property, Watkins said.

"This is not an unusual zoning for this area," Watkins said. "You have already decided that multiple family is an appropriate use in this part of town."

About 30 residents attended the meeting in opposition to the rezoning. Eight individuals spoke against the plan.

Steve Lisle, an attorney representing some of the residents, said the area is unable to support any more multi-family complexes.

"The fact that there is other multi-family housing is a negative, not a positive," Lisle said. "This area can only handle so much density. Where is all the traffic going to go?"

Plans for the complex show the cars using one entry point, Lisle said.

"We don't feel that is viable for this property."

Bob Brooks of Rogers said he is a developer.

"Normally I would find myself quite sympathetic to the developers in situations here," Brooks said. "In this case you have had an overwhelming opposition. In the past, I have given presentations at city councils and been shot down for a lot less reasons."

Mark Myers said he usually doesn't support multi-family complexes with more than 12 residences per acre. Tuesday's night request asked for 15 residences per acre.

"Here we have a lot of a green space along with park land being donated to the city," Myers said. "These are factors that offset the density increase."

The developers plan to donate about $500,000 of land to the Park Department, Watkins said. He said the land sits at the front of the apartment complex. He said another $500,000 would be donated for development of the park.

"I understand the neighbors concerns but I believe this is better than what could be there," Myers said. "I have seen this over the years where people have to be careful of what they wish for."

Planning Commissioners approved a request to change the planned-unit development the complex is in during a meeting Nov. 3. The zoning also will need approval from the City Council.

NW News on 11/18/2015

Upcoming Events