2023.09.05 PBOA Meeting Video

Woodfin Planning Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap: September 5, 2023

The Woodfin Planning Board of Adjustment convened on September 5, 2023, to discuss several key planning and zoning matters impacting the town. The meeting, attended by board members and Town Staff, focused primarily on updates to zoning regulations concerning Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and steep slope protections, alongside a specific project proposal from Duke Energy. No members of the public signed up to speak during the meeting.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on proposed changes to Woodfin's zoning code regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The board engaged in a detailed conversation about potential limitations, including maximum size (up to 800 square feet or 70% of the primary dwelling’s heated area), parking requirements, and height restrictions (capped at 25 feet). A particularly important debate revolved around how to apply these regulations on smaller lots, such as those with homes measuring only 600 square feet. Board members explored potential challenges and the possibility of reclassifying a smaller ADU as the primary dwelling if it’s located in front of an existing structure. While no formal vote was taken on these ADU zoning code updates during this meeting, the board identified areas needing clarification and agreed that the proposed changes will proceed for consideration by the Woodfin Town Council.

Beyond ADUs, the board also discussed proposed revisions to the town's steep slope regulations, which would consolidate existing rules (Chapter 40) into Chapter 54 and introduce penalties for non-compliance. This update aims to streamline regulations and ensure greater accountability in development projects impacting sensitive areas within Woodfin.

The board also addressed a request from Duke Energy to amend an existing Special Use Permit (SUP) for their 4.6-megawatt battery storage facility located on Riverside Drive. The amendment seeks to relocate the system within the existing property boundaries. Following a presentation from Duke Energy representatives, including Dylan, who outlined the project's rationale and timeline, the board unanimously approved Duke Energy’s request. Construction is planned to begin in early 2024, with a target completion date of August 2024. One board member did raise concerns about potential increased traffic on Riverside Drive as a result of the facility, highlighting an ongoing consideration for the town.

What's Next & Why It Matters:

Several key action items emerged from the meeting. Town staff will focus on clarifying language within the zoning code regarding ADUs, particularly concerning size limitations and application to smaller lots. The proposed zoning code updates related to both ADUs and steep slopes will now be forwarded to the Woodfin Town Council for further review and potential adoption. Residents should anticipate opportunities to provide feedback on these proposed changes as they progress through the council's process. The approval of Duke Energy’s permit amendment means that work on the battery storage facility will soon be underway, representing a significant investment in renewable energy infrastructure for Woodfin.

This meeting underscored the town's commitment to proactively updating its zoning regulations and addressing development projects in a thoughtful manner, ultimately shaping the future of Woodfin's neighborhoods and landscape.