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The Town of Knightdale is currently proposing major changes to its zoning map. Most significantly, 47.5% of the land in Knightdale's jurisdiction is proposed to change from its current zoning (which varies) to a new zoning classification called Rural Transition (RT). This RT zoning is a downzoning to 1 unit/2 acres. The town initiated rezoning is stated to be based upon the KnightdaleNext 2035 Comprehensive Plan.
At the first public hearing on 10/1/18 so many speakers spoke against the changes that the public hearing was carried forward to the 10/17/18 meeting. Again, at that meeting, many showed up to speak against the proposed rezoning and consequently the public hearing was extended a second time until the 11/5/18 meeting at 7:00 p.m. The Town sees the proposed change as providing greater flexibility to the land owners and developers instead of locking them into a stated zoning, it's a "transition" district. Also, the Town believes the change from a special use permit/quasi-judicial hearing to a rezoning request through a legislative process will allow for more transparency among the developer, Town and citizens. Many land owners and developers are concerned about the cost of land, the predictability of the process, financing capabilities and slowing down of the process. There is also much debate over the methodology used for determining what land should be rezoned - what constitutes "rural transition". Very many see this as a downzoning and a taking of development rights. Many meetings have taken place between the HBA and the Town staff, elected officials and with interested members. There still is a divide in the belief as to what the unintended consequences of this rezoning will be. To read more on this topic, please click here. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact me at sharris@hbawake.com. |
