Residents of Fuquay Varina expressed strong support for a proposed developer agreement during a recent town meeting, highlighting concerns over the town board's perceived resistance to the project. Community members, including Lisa Lau and Brian Derek, voiced their approval of the Bowen Park project, emphasizing the developer's responsiveness to local feedback and the positive changes made to the initial plans.
Lau, a resident adjacent to the proposed development, recounted her experience of attending meetings where her concerns about safety, property values, and privacy were addressed by the developer, D.R. Horton. She described the builder's willingness to implement additional measures beyond what was required, which she viewed as a significant commitment to the community. Lau criticized the town board for what she termed \"blatant bullying,\" claiming they imposed unnecessary demands that hindered the project's progress.
Derek echoed Lau's sentiments, expressing frustration over the town's shifting requirements and the impact on residents awaiting development. He urged the board to approve the project, stating it would benefit the community and provide much-needed commercial opportunities.
Jamie Schneider, another local resident, praised the developer for their efforts to engage with the community and adapt their plans to meet residents' needs. She expressed confusion over the town's resistance, highlighting the potential economic benefits of the project for Fuquay Varina.
During the board's discussion, officials clarified that their role is to ensure developments align with the town's land use plan, which aims to balance residential and commercial growth. They acknowledged the importance of commercial components in new projects, noting past disappointments when promised commercial developments failed to materialize.
The board ultimately expressed support for the project, recognizing the developer's commitment to addressing community concerns and the potential benefits for the town. The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion and a vote on the developer agreement in the near future.