New Kent Planning Commission gives thumbs down to PUD amendment for Rock Creek Villas
Monday’s New Kent Planning Commission public hearing surrounding a proposed amendment to Rock Creek Villas PUD (Planned Unit Development) in attempts to bring affordable housing to senior communities. However, input from citizens and a number of concerns from the commission resulted in a non-favorable recommendation by planners.
The planning commission voted 8-0-1 to forward an unfavorable recommendation to county supervisors on the proposal by the Woda Group who represent Peggy and Billy Cunningham on the PUD amendment.
Among proposals in the PUD amendment asked by the Woda Group included reduction in the number of maximum number of senior living facility lots down to 46 (originally 56), the assisted living facility lots being limited between 56-60, and all buildings to be constructed with the same material and characteristics of others in Rock Creek Villa. The proposal also include reducing the size of the building, the Woda Group purchasing the privacy gate, and maintaining the landscaping on t he eastern portion of the property.
Billy Cunningham asked for the distinctive location of the assisted living property for future construction. Cunningham’s request for the assistant living facility on the west side because the eastern portion of Rock Creek Villas would be addressed by the senior living facility. He also said that he had the backing of three churches in the surrounding community.
Citizens, however, spoke against the PUD, citing inconsistencies and the Cunninghams’ fabrications of the intended plans.
“This is inconsistent,” said William Showmake, a representative of current residents of Rock Creek Villa. “This went from an upscale [living facility] to a low-income subsidized housing project.”
“Bringing assisted living will bring more problems than the county is prepared for,” commented Hank Amann. “Your vote will impact their lives and the residents.”
Vicki Clark said the Cunninghams didn’t maintain the original integrity as first presented to residents of the community.
“I’ve been here for two years and the Cunninghams did whatever it took to get them to buy into the fact that this was an upscale community,” Clark commented. “They have used our home as a model before.
“But now, we were informed by them that this was no longer the case,” she added. “We were once close but now our home isn’t used anymore and Billy [Cunningham] has sent out newsletters talking about his disappointment with this community.”
Mark Hill said that he understands the conundrum involving residents in Rock Creek Villa, but said that there was a need for assisted living.
“Not everyone has the same wealth as others that come from a church environment,” Hill said. “This is the right thing to do.”
Billy Cunningham returned to the podium to address alleged intentions for the property.
“I am glad they say it’s an upscale facility,” he said with a smirk. “That’s not what I am told.”
Cunningham’s comment drew ire from residents in attendance. Several commission members were astounded about the plan’s inconsistencies and lack of organization. Finally, planning commission chairwoman Patricia Townsend said the PUD in not a representation of how the commission passes a proper amendment for favorable recommendation.
“The commission didn’t see any consistency or detail from the Cunninghams or the Woda group,” she said. “It hasn’t been consistent with what the residents were told.”
An unfavorable recommendation was forwarded to the county’s board of supervisors. The issue is expected to be addressed with county leaders at the February regularly scheduled board meeting.