Topsail's 'Serenity': Future of undisturbed land remains in question

Under a beach tent, Russ and Tiffany Kratzer watched their children play in the calm waves on the southern tip of Topsail Island, an area also known as Serenity Point.

The area offers a natural tranquility for visitors and residents like Kratzer. But many are concerned a developer's plans will disturb it.

Todd Olson, CEO and founder of software company Pendo, submitted a request to Topsail Beach officials to build a family compound. Plans first surfaced in October 2022 from Olson during a public input meeting about the project.

"It's such a piece of beautiful land and it's been protected for so long," Tiffany said. "It would be sad if the community can't enjoy it as much."

Russ agreed.

"It's a nice place to bring your family," he said. "It would be a shame if it went away."

According to the application, the proposed development would take up 30 acres on a 150-acre tract at the end of Ocean Boulevard. The land is owned by the McLeod family.

If rezoning is approved by officials, Olson would like to add seven single-family homes and other amenities including a swimming pool, maintenance building/garage, a pedestrian water access walkway, and boat dockage for six vessels. A driveway to access the property was also requested.

Previous coverage: Plans for family compound on Topsail Island scaled back, but concerns remain

Entrepreneur makes presents plans: Serenity lost? As anger grows on Topsail family compound plans, developer maps next steps

More from Topsail Beach: As historic Topsail market to reopen, how Pender grocers are staying ahead of chain stores

It was an increase from what was previously presented. In January, a proposal was made for six homes on about 17 acres of land.

The application was discussed during a March 27 planning board meeting with residents raising concerns about the environment and wildlife. According to the town, the planning board is required to send an approval or denial decision to the board of commissioners no later than 65 days after its officially presented.

Officials from Charles F. Riggs & Associates, a land surveying company, will continue communicating with town officials for the next steps.

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Reporter Chase Jordan can be reached at cjjordan@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Family compound proposal at Topsail Island remains in play