Planning Commission approves subdivision of land in Stone Bridge neighborhood

During its Nov. 7 meeting, the Shelby County Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding the subdivision of Sector 2 of the Stone Bridge neighborhood that sits along Alabama 119 between Briarwood Christian School and Asbury Methodist Church. Tom Werk of Covenant Builders requested approval to subdivide Sector 2's four acres of land into ten residential plots. 

As of right now, the land is undeveloped, but the anticipated lots are between 17,865 and 18,000 square feet in size and contain single-family homes. Following along with the families that currently reside in Sector 1, any children living in Sector 2 would attend Oak Mountain schools, and the homes would be served by the North Shelby Fire Department. 

After meeting the with presiding Home Owner's Association, Covenant Builders has decided to implement a separate sewage system using septic tanks, which differs from the pre-existing force main sewage system of the first sector. This was done to avoid any conflict with other homeowners and homes that already use the force main sewage system, said Werk. 

Though there was discussion because the plans did not meet all subdivision requirements, the Planning Commission unanimously approved the proposal, contingent on the requirement that the plans are adjusted to meet the minimum subdivision requirements. A sidewalk waiver was also accepted on the grounds that sidewalks would be "out of character" for this development. 

Because a decision was reached even though the proposal did not meet the minimal subdivision requirements, the Department of Development Services and the planning commission came to the agreement that future proposals would not be taken to the commission unless they "substantially complied" with all requirements. 

Also during the meeting, the planning commission and staff viewed a brief report on Phase 1 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit. Renewed on Oct. 1, 2015, the permit requires that any communities built after the issuing date must meet certain requirements in regards to the conveyance of storm water in developed areas said Chad Scroggins, chief development officer. Scroggins also mentioned that low impact developments are encouraged. 

The next Shelby County Planning Commission will take place on Dec. 5.