Residents oppose Anthony Seides' rezoning proposal near Wylie Branch Subdivision

Concerns over a proposed rezoning request in Pender County took center stage at the June 3 Planning Board meeting, as residents voiced strong opposition to plans for a new development adjacent to the Wylie Branch Subdivision. The proposal, which seeks to build 906 homes, has raised alarms about potential impacts on traffic, overcrowded schools, and flooding risks.

Jake Wire, a local resident, highlighted the significant increase in density that the development would bring, stressing that it poses measurable risks to the community. He pointed out that the area contains extensive wetlands, which have been largely overlooked in the proposed plans. "Allowing the development... will result in acres of additional impervious surfaces, drastically increasing the risk of flooding for current residents," Wire stated.

April Dunn, another resident whose property backs up to the proposed site, echoed these concerns. She expressed frustration over the lack of promised amenities in her own neighborhood and the ongoing issues with overcrowded schools. "The new elementary school on 210 is already going to be at or past capacity when it opens," Dunn noted, emphasizing the strain on local educational resources.

Traffic congestion was another major point of contention. Dunn described the current state of Island Creek Road as "incredibly congested," warning that adding nearly 900 homes would exacerbate the situation. She recalled the flooding experienced during Hurricane Florence, raising fears that the new development would worsen existing drainage issues.

Both residents urged the Planning Board to reconsider the proposal, arguing that it primarily benefits the developer at the expense of the community's quality of life. As the board deliberates, the voices of concerned residents underscore the need for careful scrutiny of future developments in Pender County.