Alexander County Commissioners oppose North Carolina House Bill 765 on local development regulations

The Alexander County Board of Commissioners has taken a firm stance against North Carolina House Bill 765, which aims to reform local government development regulations. During their meeting on May 5, 2025, County Attorney Ben Faulconberry presented a resolution opposing the bill, highlighting its potential negative impacts on the county's governance and development processes.

Faulconberry outlined several key provisions of the bill that could impose significant burdens on county staff and local governance. One major concern is the requirement for a fiscal note for every regulation, which would assess the financial implications of new ordinances or amendments. This could lead to increased costs for the county, as complex studies may necessitate contracting outside services.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal liabilities for county officials and staff, including punitive damages in lawsuits, which could deter individuals from serving on boards like the planning board or Board of Adjustments. Faulconberry emphasized that these changes could chill public discourse and participation in local governance, as board members might be disqualified from discussions based on prior conversations.

The resolution also argues that the bill undermines the county's authority to tailor development regulations to its unique needs, particularly given Alexander County's mountainous and rural landscape. Current regulations, which include provisions for minimum lot sizes and emergency access requirements, would be restricted under the new law.

The board unanimously approved the resolution, signaling their commitment to maintaining local control over development regulations and protecting the interests of Alexander County residents. This decision reflects a broader concern about the implications of state-level legislation on local governance and community needs.