Planning Board Meeting 12/16/2024

Bunker County Planning Board Meeting Recap – December 16, 2024

The Bunker County Planning Board convened on December 16, 2024, to address several key items impacting the future of our community. This meeting primarily focused on a significant rezoning request, but also included important discussions regarding ongoing legislative changes and future planning initiatives. All members of the Planning Board were present, ensuring a full quorum for all proceedings.

The most significant decision made during the meeting was the unanimous approval of a rezoning request from Barney Danzansky (represented by Equity Development Group LLC) for a 10.35-acre parcel located at 14 Hitching Post Lane. Currently zoned R2 Residential, the land will now be rezoned to CS Commercial Services. Planning Department staff, led by Shannon Cappazali, presented the application, highlighting its alignment with the Buncombe County Comprehensive Plan’s vision for mixed-use neighborhoods. A key point of clarification addressed the relationship between rezoning decisions and updates to the Growth, Equity, and Conservation (GEC) map; staff confirmed that any rezoning not aligned with the GEC map will trigger an automatic update to that map for the affected parcel. Craig Justice, representing Mr. Danzansky, emphasized the property’s strategic location within a developing commercial corridor along Lester Highway, drawing an analogy to a teenager growing into adulthood.

Beyond the rezoning decision, several important discussions took place. A board member voiced concerns about the potential strain on public transportation along Lester Highway due to increased development, prompting an inquiry regarding Mountain Mobility's capacity. Staff confirmed that the property in question has been piped for decades, effectively eliminating any current flood hazard concerns. The Board also briefly discussed Senate Bill 832 (SB 832), a new state law with potential implications for zoning regulations and emergency housing. While staff is actively reviewing the bill’s impact, a definitive assessment wasn't available during the meeting. The discussion about "spot zoning" – considering a property’s highest potential use regardless of adjacent land uses – showcased the Board's commitment to evaluating each proposal individually.

There was no direct public comment during the designated periods, although Harry Clay, the parcel owner, participated in the applicant presentation. This absence of public input doesn't diminish the importance of the decisions made, which will undoubtedly shape the landscape and character of our community.

Looking ahead, several action items emerged from the meeting. Planning Department staff will investigate and provide information on Mountain Mobility routes along Lester Highway to address concerns about public transportation. They will also continue their review of SB 832, assessing its potential impact on local zoning regulations. Furthermore, a presentation regarding floodplain regulations is scheduled for February, and the Board anticipates receiving a presentation on proposed text amendments related to zoning in March.

This Planning Board meeting was a significant step forward in shaping Bunker County’s future development. The approval of the Hitching Post Line rezoning, coupled with ongoing discussions about transportation and legislative changes, will directly impact residents and businesses alike. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed about these developments and participate in future public forums as the Planning Board continues its work.