A development group’s plans for energy-efficient rural estates can move ahead, now that Douglas County commissioners officially have rezoned the 159 acres needed to make the project legal.

Wednesday night, commissioners formally approved a rezoning application for Raeta, a subdivision of 13 homes planned along the north side of Stull Road, a half-mile east of the Shawnee County line.

Commissioners already had approved the plan Oct. 11. Commissioners agreed that the property could be used for suburban home development, rather than being limited to agricultural uses.

Core Investments plans to transform the site into a “zero-energy” development, featuring homes designed to incorporate recycled materials and tap into sustainable energy sources, such as solar power. Lots range from five to 12 acres, and include access to communal farm ponds, horse barns and working fields.

Charlie Dominguez, Core’s general manager, said he hoped to begin selling lots early next year.

Also Wednesday, commissioners agreed to rezone seven acres of agricultural property for commercial uses near the northeast corner of U.S. Highways 59 and 56, about 3.5 miles west of Baldwin. Frontier Farm Credit plans to merge its Lawrence and Ottawa offices into a new building at the location.