I have several concerns about the Chappell Farms development.
This development is not in character with any in the area. Paynter’s Mill, the development just across Cave Neck Road, has a density of 2.73 units per acre, composed of 300 units on 110 acres. It has no housing higher than three stories. The community of Five Points, about three miles away, has a density of 2.5 units per acre and has some three-story buildings. It has 566 units on 224 acres. Red Fox Run, immediately adjacent to the planned Chappell Farms development, has a density of 1.4 units per acre, with about 48 units on 50 acres.
Compared to these neighbors, Chappell Farms plans 128 units on 6.4 acres plus another 8.5 acres to be rezoned for commercial use with additional dwelling units for a total of 156 units on 14.9 acres. Therefore, when the developer states that Chappell Farms is in the same character as others in the area, it is an erroneous statement. The density of Chappell Farms is at least 10.4 units per acre.
The developer also stated at the Sussex County board meeting March 2, that the reason for the high density of this development is his concern for the commercial property and its needs to sustain an economic profit. When the developer amended the project in addition of more units, the commercial project also increased in size. The developer is putting profits ahead of environmental, social and population density concerns of our area.
The developer stated he lives in the neighborhood, but he is far enough away that this project will not affect his immediate home and living arrangements. He mentioned his legacy as a builder is admirable, but after this project his logic is flawed.
Please consider, in the very least, to downsize this project.
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