A proposed major housing development in one Oconee County town is receiving a mixed reception. The Town Council in West Union voted Tuesday night to approve annexing two lots of land.
The land is part of a proposed gated housing development that would see 400 new homes built on it. The land is needed for the developer to connect the main tract to an area of Blue Ridge Boulevard which is where the entrance would be for the development.
West Union's Mayor Linda Oliver is in favor of the development saying the growth will bring another stream of funding to the town. She feels the town's longtime stance of limiting growth has hurt the town financially.
The move drew some backlash from residents who were at the meeting. The public comment section of the meeting saw residents venting there frustrations with the proposed development. They feel the annexation will alter the town's identity in the future.
Longtime residents voiced concerns about potential tax increases to fund the infrastructure needed with the population growth. They also feel that many new residents could alter the outcomes of future local elections as well.
