By Shavonne Potts

Salisbury Post

LANDIS — After months of uncertainty, the Landis Board of Aldermen on Monday gave its approval to Craft Development to move forward with plans for a 235-home subdivision near U.S. 29.

The board heard a request a couple of months ago to rezone the 74-acre tract of property from manufacturing to residential.

The tract is located on the west side of U.S. 29. It crosses Chapel Street and stops at the Norfolk Southern right of way.

The aldermen were divided on the issue, as were residents. A few were in favor of the project and others wanted to see the property remain zoned for manufacturing.

Board members had to decide a few things Monday before giving their approval, including whether the action was reasonable and in the public interest. All of the board voted yes with the exception of Alderman James Furr, who cast a dissenting vote. Alderman Craig Sloop was not present at the meeting.

In other business:

* Town Engineer Mike Acquesta recommended the board ask for a two-year extension for a $250,000 federal Stag Grant the town was awarded two years ago for sewer/water improvements.

At a special session meeting two weeks ago, the board agreed to put a water/sewer bond totaling $6-$7 million on the ballot next year.

The money would be used to replace the 50-year-old water system.

Acquesta said Monday if the town used the grant, it would have to be for sewer and they would have to put in money for a match.

* The board received a request from Landis resident William “Chip” Hoell to rezone property that he owns from single-family residential to office institutional.

Hoell has cleared a portion of property at 409, 411 and 415 West Ryder Ave., and wants to transform a residential structure into a real estate office.

Surrounding property is zoned for mixed use, including light manufacturing, general business and general residential. A public hearing is scheduled at 7 p.m., Jan. 8.

* The board adopted a resolution to establish an early polling place in southern Rowan County.

Furr recommended that residents who live in the southernmost part of the county be allowed to vote at the South Rowan Public Library instead of traveling to West Innes Street in Salisbury at the Rowan County Board of Elections office.

* The board approved purchase of a rubber tire backhoe for the light department. The money was budgeted for last year, said Public Works Director Steve Rowland.

The current backhoe is about 20 years old, he said. The cost is $68,707.

* The board approved repairs to the roof and ceiling at the police department. Police Chief Reggie Faggart said the repairs are needed because when it rains, it floods the building.

He asked for $1,055, which is already included in the police maintenance budget.

* The board tabled appointing people to fill vacancies on the town planning board until the next meeting. The board has two interested people, but needs more. Those who are interested are asked to contact any of the aldermen or town hall.

* The board heard from James Javurek, who recently opened Race City Helicopters at Aviation Drive.

Javurek wanted to answer any questions about his aviation training business. He said he’d like to integrate teaching programs with the opportunity to educate people about aviation.

The board will meet again Jan. 8.

Contact Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253 or spotts@salisburypost.com.