Event Recap
Woodfin Board of Commissioners Meeting Recap: February 15, 2022
On February 15th, the Woodfin Board of Commissioners convened for a productive meeting addressing key community matters. The session included appointments to vacant commissioner seats, consideration of several important ordinances, and valuable public input on a proposed rezoning project. This recap provides an overview of the key discussions, decisions, and next steps for Woodfin residents.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on filling vacancies left by departing Commissioners Angel and Stoker. Following interviews, Judy Butler was appointed to Commissioner Angel’s seat, and Betsy Urban was selected to fill Commissioner Stoker's position. Both were subsequently sworn in by Judge Allen Thornburg, marking a fresh start for the Board.
Beyond personnel changes, the Board tackled several important policy matters. They unanimously approved a revised steep slope ordinance, aimed at responsible development in areas with challenging terrain. The Board also voted to amend the conditional zoning process, now requiring large developments (20+ dwelling units or 30,000+ square feet) to go through this process. A notable decision was the denial of a rezoning request for the Blueberry Hill property, which sought to change its designation from Community Shopping to Light Industrial. This decision followed extensive public comment and consideration of the Planning Board’s recommendation, ultimately prioritizing neighborhood preservation.
The meeting also included a period for public comment where residents voiced their opinions on several topics. Robert McGee emphasized the importance of community engagement and a positive narrative for Woodfin. Regarding the Blueberry Hill rezoning, Fargus Bowling and David Brock presented their proposal, highlighting compromises made to address neighbor concerns. Emmy Warlick, a Blueberry Hill resident, expressed reservations about the rezoning’s potential impact on her neighborhood.
Finally, departmental reports provided valuable insights into town operations. The Police Department reported a decrease in certain crime areas and ongoing work related to the Governor's Crime Commission grant. Updates were also given on the Comprehensive Plan, including ongoing public input sessions and upcoming budget planning workshops. A new online permit portal is launching soon, streamlining the application process for residents and businesses. Notably, town revenues are currently exceeding projections thanks to increased sales tax collection – a positive sign for Woodfin’s financial health.
What's Next? The Board has requested a report from the ABC Board at their next meeting. Residents can expect further engagement as part of the Comprehensive Plan process, including upcoming budget workshops. The launch of the online permit portal will soon offer a more convenient way to manage permits and code enforcement.
This meeting demonstrated the Board’s commitment to addressing key community issues while actively listening to resident concerns. Stay informed about future meetings and opportunities for participation by visiting the town's official website.