Residents Urge Review of Stormwater Regulations Amid Chatham Park Flooding Concerns

During the Pittsboro Planning Board Regular Meeting on July 21, 2025, community members voiced significant concerns regarding recent flooding events and their implications for local development, particularly in relation to Chatham Park. Carol Hewitt, a resident of the area, highlighted the urgent need for a review of stormwater regulations, citing recent flooding that has become increasingly frequent. She pointed out that the removal of large areas of forest and the construction of impervious surfaces, such as roads and homes, have exacerbated flooding risks.

Hewitt emphasized the importance of understanding the updated plans for Chatham Park, which she described as potentially the largest small area plan in the United States. She urged the Planning Board to hold a working session with staff and involve community members in discussions about the plan's implications for future generations. Her call for transparency and collaboration reflects a broader concern among residents about the environmental impact of development in the region.

Mark Hewitt, also a resident, echoed his wife's sentiments, requesting that the Planning Board delay any changes to the current plans and adhere to the existing master plan. This request underscores a community desire for careful consideration of development strategies in light of environmental challenges.

The discussions at this meeting highlight a critical intersection of development and environmental stewardship in Pittsboro, as residents seek to ensure that growth does not come at the expense of their safety and the integrity of their community. As the Planning Board moves forward, the input from residents like the Hewitts will be essential in shaping a sustainable future for Chatham County.