Fuquay-Varina Council considers zoning amendment amid resident concerns over DRB development

The Wake County Planning Board convened on March 17, 2025, to discuss a proposed zoning map amendment aimed at facilitating a new residential development in Fuquay-Varina. The meeting began with staff presenting their recommendation for approval of the zoning amendment, citing several key reasons for their support.

Firstly, the proposed zoning aligns with the 2040 Community Vision Land Use Plan, specifically designated for town center residential development. Staff emphasized that the zoning change would encourage infill development and reinvestment in downtown neighborhoods, consistent with the plan's policies. Additionally, the requested zoning district falls within a designated infill investment area, which aims to manage future growth in accordance with priority infrastructure investment areas.

The staff also noted that the proposed zoning is complementary to existing uses in the vicinity and that the development's specific conditions would effectively manage future site development. They concluded that the master plan and narrative submitted by the developer comply with the zoning conditions and the goals outlined in the land use plan.

Following the staff presentation, the public hearing was opened, allowing for community input. The developer, Jackson McConnell from DRB Group, expressed enthusiasm for the project and was available to answer questions.

However, concerns were raised by local resident Mireille Hill, who lives near the proposed development site. Hill highlighted issues related to the developer's past performance, citing complaints about construction quality and post-sale service from previous homeowners. She urged the Planning Board to delay the rezoning decision until a thorough investigation of the developer's history could be conducted. Hill also requested a detailed analysis of the potential impact on surrounding property values and called for a comprehensive traffic management plan to address increased traffic in the area.

In her closing remarks, Hill advocated for improved transparency in the rezoning process, suggesting that notification guidelines be expanded to better inform residents about developments in their neighborhoods.

The Planning Board will consider the public feedback and staff recommendations before making a decision on the zoning amendment, with further discussions anticipated in future meetings.