On Tuesday, the Rockdale MDD hosted another economic development
lunch and learn and the special guest was Mart y Ja ncza k , government affairs director for the Temple Area Builders Janczak Association. One of the first things he told the audience was that in Texas right now big houses with large lots are not what is selling. Using builders jargon Janczak said, “People don’t want all that property anymore. SF2 and SF3 homes are what is selling in this area.”
SF2 and SF3 have different requirements, but they both basically mean attached units that must appear as if they are clearly either one single unit or two distinct housing units. Treatments to promote distinct unit appearance include separate driveways for each unit, separate prominent entries for each unit, differences in exterior colors for each unit, or other features to enhance the appearance of the structure and encourage compatibility with its surroundings.
So in a nutshell, duplexes in a small subdivision on small lots with little to no upkeep.
Janczak knew a little about Rockdale and he was told that we are looking at a major employer possibly coming to town and the rumors of even more.
He was also asked what are the first steps for Rockdale after a large number of people move here? He answered, “There is no once-size-fits-all approach I can give you, but one thing is certain: everyone in Rockdale should be on the same page and work together. The city, MDD, RISD, the county government and area builders must have the same vision.”
Janczak also said that as far as housing developments go, it would definitely be outside companies who come in and want to build subdivisions and apartment complexes.
“Since apartments are less expensive and cost less to build than housing subdivisions, we would expect them to come into town first,” he said.
That is also what the real estate developers who were the speakers at the first MDD lunch and learn said.
Judge Steve Young mentioned, “I have talked with the new owners of the Alcoa property. The owner told me he had just spent a huge amount of money and he is definitely looking for a return on his investment. In other words he is actively seeking tenants for the property.”
Rockdale Mayor John King said, “If all of these rumors are true about the companies coming to the old Alcoa property then I can see Rockdale exceeding school capacities.”
One thing is certain, Rockdale’s future is looking bright.
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