Rendering of Cashmere proposal

Aug. 5. By Dave Vieser. The Cornelius Town Board has approved the Cashmere development on Jetton Road Extension. The 4-1 vote at last night’s meeting clears the way for a 14-unit, six-story condominium and 2,500 square foot commercial space at the northwest corner of Jetton Road Extension and Bethel Church Road.

The Zaika Group of Cornelius, made up of Adam and Iryna Jones, purchased the site in 2017 for $145,000 and sought approval for the project.

“Our vision for this project aligns with the Town of Cornelius’ planning objectives by creating a pedestrian-friendly, architecturally refined, and economically vibrant development that enhances the surrounding area,” said Adam Jones.

The property is currently vacant except for a seldom-used parking lot.

“I’m very excited about this project,” said Commissioner Susan Johnson, who voted in favor. “I work nearby and travel that road often. Anything would be better than what it is currently.”

Residents follow Cashmere vote

The rezoned site is near another mixed-use development, the Cornelius Mixed-Use Building, which received rezoning approval in 2022 after its proposed height was reduced from six to four stories. No construction has begun on that project.

The town’s Planning Board had recommended against the six-story height, saying it conflicted with the land-use plan adopted in 2023. The board recommended capping the height at three stories.

The lone “no” vote came from Commissioner Michael Osborne, who led development of the new land-use plan.

“This town needs a strategy for growth that follows our land-use plan,” he said. “In recommending denial, the Planning Board got it right.”

This marks the second time this year the town board has gone against a Planning Board recommendation. In June, the board rejected a zoning change that would have permitted a business park on Bailey Road—despite the Planning Board’s support.