The Olathe City Council has voted to approve the rezoning of a nearly eight-acre lot at 119th Street and Lone Elm Road, paving the way for a new townhome development. The decision, reached with a 5-2 vote, brings an end to a prolonged discussion about the future of the site.

Rezoning Decision

For months, residents, developers, and city leaders have debated whether the land should remain designated for future commercial development or be used for housing. The council’s decision to rezone the land from a Neighborhood Center designation to R-3 for low-density residential projects allows for the construction of Lone Elm Townhomes, a 64-unit development.

Mayor John Bacon and councilmembers Dean Vakas, LeEtta Felter, Matthew Schoonover, and Kevin Deneault voted in favor of the rezoning, while Robyn Essex and Jeff Creighton opposed it. The project, which has faced significant opposition, was initially recommended for denial by the Olathe Planning Commission, citing misalignment with the city’s comprehensive plan.

Community Concerns and Developer Adjustments

Nearby residents expressed concerns about increased traffic and the use of neighborhood amenities by townhome residents. In response, the New Bedford Land Development Company reduced the project size from 71 to 64 townhomes and agreed to design the buildings in harmony with the architectural style of nearby neighborhoods. However, they did not incorporate any commercial elements into the plan, which city staff continued to recommend against.

Attorney Curtis Holland, representing the developer, argued that the property had been marketed for commercial use for over 20 years without success. He stated that holding onto the hope of future retail development was not practical.

Balancing Housing Needs

Ultimately, the council decided that expanding affordable housing options was a greater priority than potential commercial development. Councilmember Kevin Deneault expressed satisfaction with the housing proposal, noting that it provides affordable options for those not earning high incomes. However, Councilmember Robyn Essex voiced disappointment over the loss of commercial opportunities in the area.

Developers have not yet disclosed whether the townhomes will be available for rent or purchase, nor have they released pricing details.

Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.