July 13, 2026 Morganton Board of Adjustment

Morganton Board of Adjustment Approves Variances for Proposed Hotel Development

The Morganton Board of Adjustment held a meeting on July 13, 2026, to review an application from Morganton Lodgings LLC for a proposed hotel development located at 184 Albert Tron Boulevard and 155 West Parker Road. The meeting, conducted as a “quasi-judicial proceeding,” focused on whether to grant four variances from the City of Morganton's zoning ordinance related to this project. This recap provides a clear overview for residents interested in understanding the outcome and its potential impact.

The core of the discussion revolved around Morganton Lodgings LLC’s request for variances impacting several aspects of the hotel's design. Specifically, the applicant sought permission to: (1) orient the hotel entrance on West Parker Road instead of Albert Tron Boulevard due to topographical challenges and a Duke Energy substation; (2) reduce the number of customer entrances, proposing a single, centralized entrance for enhanced security; (3) replace window space on the north side with shutters; and (4) reduce required window area on the upper floors, citing the location of back-of-house facilities below grade. City staff, led by Wendy Smith, Director of Development and Design Services, presented the application details, while a key point of debate centered on whether shutters could adequately substitute for windows under city regulations and the reasoning behind a 25% glazing requirement.

Several residents were given the opportunity to share their concerns during the public comment period. These included worries about increased noise levels impacting nearby residential areas, potential traffic congestion due to existing cut-through routes, and overall safety and security within the neighborhood. One resident, Steven Hawkins, referenced a previous news article regarding potential property subdivision and questioned the hotel’s proximity to West Parker Road. These concerns were carefully considered by the Board as part of their decision-making process.

Ultimately, after presentations, questions from Board members (including a query by Board Member Mr. Britton regarding the 25% glazing requirement), and public testimony, the Morganton Board of Adjustment unanimously approved all four variance requests (4-0). The Board’s decision was based on findings that the applicant had demonstrated efforts to minimize potential impacts on neighbors, highlighted security benefits of a single entrance point, and acknowledged the hardship created by strict adherence to existing window requirements in specific areas of the building. Board Chair Thomas Ure emphasized the quasi-judicial nature of the hearing, ensuring a fair and legally sound process.

Looking ahead, Morganton Lodgings LLC can now proceed with the hotel construction incorporating these approved variances. As a condition of approval, the city police will monitor the hotel to address any concerns that may arise. This decision marks a significant step forward for the proposed hotel development and will likely impact traffic patterns, noise levels, and potentially security within the surrounding neighborhoods. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about future developments related to this project and engage with city officials if they have further questions or concerns.