Jackson mulls land annexation

The Jackson Board of Aldermen held a public hearing about a proposed residential development during their meeting Monday evening.

The items on the agenda concerned the future of 33.22 acres on Old Cape Road East near Klaus Park, which is set to be annexed into Jackson.

The property's development is being headed by Ramsey Branch LLC, which intends to establish a subdivision and community exclusively for residents 55 and older.

The proposed subdivision would include mostly single-family homes, real estate agent Bobby Gray explained on behalf of Ramsey Branch LLC, although it would also include a number of townhomes (duplexes) for individuals who might want to become part of the senior-living community but are unable or unwilling to purchase a house.

Gray fielded questions about the planned alterations of the existing topography, fire code and safety of the individual units and parking space, explaining that all city ordinances and safety measures would be observed.

"We're really excited to be part of the city of Jackson if this works out," he said. "We're really looking forward to proceeding with this."

Gray said the proposed subdivision would not be in direct competition to assisted-living homes, but rather would provide a happy medium for local seniors who don't need continual care, but who also prefer to socialize with others of their own age.

"At its most basic, it's a subdivision with an age restriction," he said. "But, there would also be a community center and an active lifestyle."

But four things need to happen before the proposed development can proceed: the acreage needs to be officially annexed, it needs to be rezoned from single-family residential to one and two-family residential, a special use permit must be approved, and a preliminary subdivision plat must be granted.

All four aspects must pass, with the preliminary plat receiving a three-fourths majority in order for the plan to be enacted.

tgraef@semissourian.com

388-36

Pertinent address:

Old Cape Road East near Klaus Park, Jackson, MO