The McMinnville Board of Zoning Appeals and the McMinnville Regional Planning Commission convened on December 3, 2024, to discuss a significant rezone request for a property located on Page Street. The proposal seeks to change the zoning designation from R-1, which allows for single-family homes, to R-6, which permits a higher density of residential development.

The project owner presented the request, emphasizing the need for more affordable housing options in McMinnville. He noted that the current market conditions have led to a scarcity of available lots, with prices rising significantly. The owner indicated that the rezone could potentially allow for an additional 10 to 15 lots, bringing the total to around 60 lots, which would cater to median-income buyers.

During the meeting, board members raised questions about the implications of the zoning change, particularly regarding access points and the impact on local infrastructure. The owner confirmed that access would be primarily from Page Street, with plans for two entry points to facilitate traffic flow.

Public comments were a focal point of the meeting, with several residents expressing concerns about the proposed change. Carol Ruffin, a local resident, voiced her apprehension about drainage issues and the potential increase in traffic, arguing that the neighborhood should maintain its character as a single-family area. She requested that the board consider the previous decision to keep the zoning as R-1, which had been supported by many in the community.

Another resident, Roger Yates, echoed these sentiments, questioning the appropriateness of R-6 zoning in a low-density area and highlighting the need for clarity on the types of homes that would be built under the new designation. He also raised concerns about the potential for duplexes or triplexes, which could alter the neighborhood's character.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to review the concerns raised by residents and to consider the implications of the zoning change before making a final decision. The board is expected to revisit the proposal in January, where further discussions and a vote will take place. This decision will be crucial in determining the future development of the area and balancing the need for housing with the preservation of existing community standards.