Brunswick County Planning Board approves 1,800-unit development but residents want to see affordable housing
"You have people from all different walks of life who are working-class people- who are being priced out of this county."
BRUNSWICK COUNTY (WWAY)–“You have people from all different walks of life who are working-class people- who are being priced out of this county,” Michele Russo said.
It’s no secret that many developments are being proposed in Brunswick County. On Monday night, the Brunswick County planning board just approved Brd Land Development to build 185 single-family homes on approximately 642 acres of land.
Some people didn’t think the foundation sits well enough, given that the units will be near wetlands. But affordable housing is top of mind for many people- something that Michele Russo wants to see.
“I believe that these developers do not look at social issues. There are various cities and states that if you do any new building, you have to put a specific amount,” Russo explained.
However, here’s the thing. The engineer is dedicating 5% of the 1,8000 homes to affordable housing. That’s about 90 homes, give or take.
But is it enough for incoming residents? Let’s ask the chair of the Brunswick County Planning Board, Clifton Cheek.
“5% of that amount- 90 homes out of 18,000 is not that many, but a start is a start,” Cheek says.
According to Cheek, the county has been working with developers to add more workforce housing– a program referring to any housing sitting between affordability options and high-end ones.
“Now that we got the framework created, hopefully, we can see more engagement on it,” Cheek said.
County officials can’t stop developments from coming or even slow them down.
“A lot of times we’re presented cases that are well thought out, well put together, and if they check all the boxes, we have a really hard time not approving them based off feeling,” Cheek explained.
But, if they are building up, Russo says to keep the working class in mind.
“You need infrastructure. You have county employees. Where are they going to live,” Russo questioned.
