Residents of the Snow Hill community expressed significant concerns during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed rezoning plan that would allow for the construction of 141 new homes along North NC Highway 58 and Bottomingill Pond Road. Inga Jackson, a long-time resident, voiced her worries about the potential impact on her property, specifically regarding the number of homes that would be built directly in front of her house and the associated increase in traffic.

Jackson's concerns were echoed by other community members, including Donna Kaye Harrison, who highlighted the historical significance of the Snow Hill area and the changes it has undergone over the years. Harrison emphasized her apprehension about the potential for manufactured housing and the environmental impacts of the development, including soil erosion and increased traffic. She questioned what protections would be in place to mitigate these issues.

Raqia Richardson, another local resident, raised similar concerns about construction noise, traffic safety, and environmental impacts, particularly regarding stormwater runoff and its effect on a nearby reservoir. She urged the planning board to consider the long-term effects on the community and the character of the neighborhood, emphasizing the need for clear answers on these pressing issues.

In response to the residents' concerns, Kevin Varnell, representing the developer, assured attendees that traffic studies had been conducted and that recommendations for turn lanes would be implemented. He clarified that the proposed zoning would prohibit manufactured housing and that stormwater management would be overseen by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.

Varnell also addressed questions about the nature of the homes, stating that they would be stick-built and priced between $300,000 and $400,000, with no intention for them to be corporate rentals. However, he acknowledged that future homeowners could choose to rent their properties if they wished.

The meeting underscored the community's apprehension about the proposed development and its potential impact on the character and safety of the Snow Hill area, as residents called for more transparency and consideration of their concerns in the planning process.