The Hoke County Board of Commissioners have approved a plat request for residential development. At their recent meeting held on Oct. 2, the Board held two public hearings to discuss planning matters.

Among those was a hearing regarding a preliminary plat approval request submitted by Averette Engineering Co. P.A. for the 97-lot major subdivision named Roberts Grove Subdivision located at the 72.93-acre property located on unaddressed parcel on Arabia Road. 

The property is zoned Residential Agricultural-20 and according to County records, Developer Robert Williams advised the Board that he wishes to develop the remainder of the property. The first phase consisting of 10 lots, has been completed.

The first resident to speak, Kenneth Gregory,  expressed concerns about the project, including overloading “already-stretched” fire and law departments in the area. Williams did note that the project had been approved by the Fire Marshal.

The second speaker, Teresa Kelton, shared concerns about the rate of growth in the area and claimed the new residential developments “ Will add a burden to the people

who live in the community.” 

Ultimately, the board voted 4-0 to approve the preliminary plat for Roberts Grove Subdivision.

Board Chairman Allen Thomas added that before the final plat is approved the water supply has to be certified that it is sufficient to serve the development.