Paducah Mayor George Bray and city commissioners on Tuesday discussed the proposed Terrace Hills subdivision at Pecan Drive and Hill Terrace, located west of Heartland Church.
The Planning Commission approved the preliminary plat on February 6 with 122 residential lots of duplexes and single-family homes on 26 acres. Josh Summers of the city's planning department said it would be the largest subdivision project for the city in 14 years. He said the layout of lots would lend itself to attract first-time home buyers and seniors looking to downsize.
The developer plans to build the subdivision in three phases over several years with a stormwater detention pond in each phase. The city said the single-story homes with garages would be valued at approximately $250,000.
A contingent of neighbors of the subdivision voiced their concerns to commissioners about density of houses, increased traffic, removal of trees and animal habitat, increased stormwater runoff, and a reduction of value of adjacent properties.
City engineer Rick Murphy said that since Pecan Lane has been improved to a 3-lane road, it would be sufficient to handle increased traffic. He also said the city would apply enhanced requirements to the developer with respect to increased capacity in stormwater retention in the development.
Bray said the city will work with the developer toward a final version of the proposal to balance the neighborhood’s concerns and the city's need for growth and housing .
In other action, the commission heard from city manager Daron Jordan about the deteriorating roof at the Convention Center and former Showroom Lounge at the back of the Convention Center. The City is the sole owner of the lounge. Jordan anticipated discussion on the roof sections and the future of the showroom to be incorporated into the Fiscal Year 2024 budget.
The mayor said the city is closely watching proposed state legislation that would place a moratorium on city annexations, even if the annexation is consensual with the residents, unless the annexation meets limited criteria.
Bray said he wants cities and counties to collaborate to balance the interests involved. He also characterized the cooperation between the City of Paducah and McCracken County as excellent, noting the two are working on a joint comprehensive plan.
(Screen shot of video from Government 11 Television)
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City commission meeting - Government 11 video coverage
