Community Voices Worsening Rezoning Concerns for Walt Lewis Facility in Chatham County

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners meeting on May 29, 2025, featured a heated discussion regarding a rezoning request by Walt Lewis for a large storage facility on Beaver Creek Road. Community members expressed strong opposition, citing concerns over the facility's size, environmental impact, and potential disruption to the residential character of the area.

Alvin McConnell, a resident of Todi Goodwin Road, highlighted that the proposed facility would be more than twice the size of existing structures and would be located just a third of a mile from Beaver Creek Road. He referenced a previous rejection of a similar project in 2016, which was deemed to have a destabilizing effect on the surrounding residential community. McConnell emphasized the historical significance of the area, noting that several historic buildings would be adversely affected by the new development.

Dan Galvin, another local resident, echoed these concerns, particularly regarding environmental risks associated with fuel storage and the potential for increased traffic from boat owners accessing the facility. He questioned the logic behind the planning staff's change in position since the earlier rejection of the project.

In contrast, several supporters of the rezoning, including Mark Harvey and Dennis Reynolds, argued that the facility would provide much-needed storage for boats and RVs, particularly for those who frequent nearby Jordan Lake. They emphasized the demand for such services and the benefits of having fuel available on-site to reduce traffic hazards.

The meeting underscored a divide within the community, with residents split between preserving the area's residential character and accommodating the growing needs of boat owners. The Board of Commissioners is expected to deliberate on the rezoning request in the coming weeks, with significant implications for the future of the Beaver Creek area.