2021.09.13 PZBOA Meeting

Woodfin Planning Board Meeting Recap: September 13, 2021

On September 13th, the Woodfin Planning Board held a comprehensive meeting lasting nearly three hours, focusing on land use planning and community development within Woodfin. The meeting addressed a range of concerns voiced by residents, ultimately leading to key decisions about the town's future direction. This recap summarizes those discussions and outcomes for Woodfin residents.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around the 2021 Comprehensive Plan, a revised document intended to guide future development in Woodfin. Following public comment (detailed below), the Board voted unanimously to recommend this plan, with approved amendments, to the Board of Commissioners for final adoption. While viewed as a stepping stone, this plan will provide direction while the town embarks on developing a new comprehensive plan in October 2021, utilizing a consultant to guide the process. Town staff explained that the Comprehensive Plan serves as a crucial guiding document, and the town attorney highlighted its importance in mitigating potential legal liabilities related to past planning decisions.

Public comment was a prominent feature of the meeting, with ten residents sharing their perspectives and concerns. A recurring theme was the need for a stronger steep slope ordinance to safeguard Woodfin's natural environment and prevent irresponsible development. Residents also expressed reservations about the current zoning map, particularly regarding high-density developments and the appropriateness of mountain village districts. Critically, many speakers called for improved communication and transparency from the town council, advocating for greater citizen involvement in planning decisions and raising concerns about potential developer influence on local policies.

Beyond the Comprehensive Plan, the Board approved scheduling a special meeting for September 27th to consider a Special Use Permit application from Haley, Hirsch, Orion Retreat and Daycare Incorporated. Finally, the Board discussed incorporating an “equity lens” into future planning processes, a move aimed at ensuring inclusivity and addressing potential disparities in how development impacts different segments of the community.

What's Next for Woodfin?

Several key actions will follow from this meeting:

• The Planning Board’s recommendation for the 2021 Comprehensive Plan will be presented to the Board of Commissioners.
• A public hearing regarding the Haley, Hirsch, Orion Retreat & Daycare application will be held on September 27th.
• The town will begin developing a new comprehensive plan in October, working with an external consultant.
• The Board will prioritize incorporating an equity lens into future planning decisions, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable approach to development.

The meeting underscored a strong desire within the community for proactive planning, greater transparency in decision-making, and robust environmental protections. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the Comprehensive Plan adoption process and participate in future public hearings as the town moves forward with its updated planning efforts.