Owl Commons: A New Vision for Community Living in Bella Vista
Bella Vista is set to see a significant development that could redefine community living in the area. The proposed Owl Commons, a cottage community planned for 102 Fairway Drive, has sparked interest and garnered strong support from local residents and officials alike. At the recent Board of Zoning Adjustment meeting on July 8, 2024, a public hearing was held to discuss the necessary variances for the project to proceed.
Innovative Community Concept
Owl Commons is envisioned as a master-planned residential community with a mix of uses designed to foster a sense of community while meeting the housing needs of Bella Vista's growing and diversifying population. The development, spearheaded by Linda Lloyd, seeks a variance on the architectural standards for residential garage placement to allow for more flexible and innovative use of land.
According to the planning documents, the community aims to create a harmonious living environment that balances independent living with shared community spaces. This approach aligns with Bella Vista's 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which emphasizes the need for diverse housing options and innovative urban development solutions.
Community Support
The project has received overwhelming support from local residents, who have voiced their approval through various letters and public comments. Long-term residents like Xyta Lucas and Charlie Teal highlighted the benefits of such a development, emphasizing its potential to meet the needs of older residents looking for a supportive and engaging living environment.
"I believe this development would be welcome in Bella Vista and, in fact, depending on my family circumstances at the time, I could see myself living there," said Xyta Lucas, a 29-year resident of Bella Vista. Similarly, Charlie Teal, a resident since 2006, noted, "The Bella Vista community has a very great need for the type of co-housing concept proposed by Owl Commons."
Planning and Zoning Challenges
Despite the enthusiasm, the project must navigate the intricacies of Bella Vista's zoning regulations. The variance request pertains specifically to the setbacks required for residential garages. Current zoning laws mandate a 30-foot setback for front-loading garages and 20 feet for rear and side-loading garages. The developers argue that these regulations impose unnecessary hardships and are not conducive to the innovative design and layout intended for Owl Commons.
In the staff report, Planner Taylor Robertson recommended approval of the variance, stating that the development aligns with the city's comprehensive plan and meets the broader goals of increasing housing diversity and density in the area.
Looking Forward
As the Board of Zoning Adjustment considers the variance request, the community remains optimistic about the potential impact of Owl Commons. This project represents a significant step towards addressing the evolving housing needs of Bella Vista residents while promoting a sense of community and shared living.
The support from residents underscores the demand for such innovative housing solutions. As Bella Vista continues to grow and develop, projects like Owl Commons could pave the way for more inclusive and diverse living options, ensuring that the city remains a desirable place to live for people of all ages.
For now, all eyes are on the Board of Zoning Adjustment as they deliberate on the future of this promising development, which could very well become a cornerstone of community living in Bella Vista.
