Rolader said development would likely begin near Hwy. 85 and go east. Rolader stressed that he and his associates are well aware of the time this type of project would take to be completed, saying that his family has owned some of this property for 30 years and is prepared to wait a while longer. The plan that has been drawn up for these early discussions includes a variety of land uses, with commercial, retail, single-family residential and town home construction sprinkled throughout. Mayor Ken Steele commented that the master plan could actually decrease the amount of actual commercial development from what the current zonings allow, which he feels is a bit too much.
Talks are underway for a property owner to be added to the mix.
As for any portion of the master plan itself, no official rezoning or annexation requests have been made so far. Rolader said he felt showing city officials an overview of his plans beforehand and inviting feedback in the earliest stages would be more productive. After two such sessions, with the Planning and Zoning Commission as well as the City Council, the response has been positive on all sides, and the developers are continuing to work with city staff to mold the plan in greater detail. This issue will not be discussed at tomorrow night's regular council meeting, according to City Manager Joe Morton, and any further talks with council are probably a few months away. Click here to send a message to the editor.