In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposal for a new residential development on a 132-acre agricultural parcel located near WHB Road. The developer aims to rezone the land to create an additional 41 lots, primarily around three acres each, under the RU 80 zoning classification, which accommodates lots ranging from 1.8 to less than 5 acres.

The proposal includes plans for an entrance from WHB Road, streets designed without curb and gutter, and individual septic systems for each lot. However, these elements would require variances from existing land development codes, which currently mandate a minimum of five acres for septic systems.

The property is situated at the intersection of two planning tiers: the natural resources tier, which encompasses areas around Smithville Lake, and the urban services tier, typically found near city limits. This unique positioning raises concerns regarding compatibility with the county's comprehensive plan and existing land uses. Staff members expressed doubts about the county's ability to provide adequate public services, particularly road maintenance, given the current backlog in infrastructure upkeep.

Additionally, the Clay County Public Health Center raised alarms about the potential environmental impact of adding 41 septic systems in the area. The ongoing revision of the comprehensive plan, which is not yet finalized, further complicates the proposal. Current guidelines suggest that residential development in the natural resources tier should not include low-density housing, such as the proposed three-acre lots.

Officials emphasized the importance of aligning any new developments with the forthcoming comprehensive plan, which is expected to prioritize larger lot sizes. As discussions continue, the future of this proposed development remains uncertain, pending further review and community input.