Residents oppose CBI's misleading special use permit for controversial year-round school

Concerns over a proposed special use permit dominated the Albemarle County Planning Commission meeting on May 13, 2025, as residents voiced strong objections to a development plan that they believe threatens the rural character of their community.

Local resident Lisa Grove highlighted significant discrepancies in the permit application, which claims a donation of 56 acres for development, while only 15 acres are actually being offered. Grove emphasized that the proposal misrepresents the nature of the development, which is intended to be a year-round facility rather than a simple school, raising concerns about increased traffic and noise in the quiet neighborhood.

Residents expressed fears regarding the environmental impact of the proposed cistern, arguing it does not adequately protect groundwater supplies essential for local homes. Grove warned that if wells were to be depleted or contaminated, residents would face dire consequences without legal recourse.

The proposed development has also raised issues related to local zoning laws. Grove pointed out that the project would disrupt the rural landscape, endanger children on narrow roads, and infringe upon long-held hunting rights in the area. She urged the commission to uphold existing zoning regulations and deny the permit, arguing that approval would undermine the integrity of local land use policies and set a concerning precedent for future developments.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to preserving their rural environment and the importance of adhering to zoning laws that protect local interests. As discussions continue, residents remain vigilant about the potential implications of the proposed development on their neighborhood's character and safety.