The county’s Planning Board has reviewed the development several times before, first when it was called Grey Ridge and later when it became the Peninsula at Lake James. The Planning Board reviewed a preliminary plat in March. In May, the preliminary master plan was formally submitted to the Planning Board. A representative for the company behind the project explained the development would occur in two phases and it would yield between 143 to 145 lots.

Last month, the Planning Board considered it again and approved the first phase. But opponents said this development would dramatically increase crowding along the lake and the roads, affect the water quality and harm the overall area around the lake. Specifically, they have asked that some rules adopted by Burke County should be applied here as well.

On Monday, they came to the county commissioners prepared with maps, charts and written statements about why developments like this could seriously harm the lake. Others submitted their comments to The McDowell News.