The Harnett County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on August 4, 2025, where the primary focus was a rezoning request from Blissful Properties and Realty. The proposal seeks to change the zoning designation of a property from residential (RA-40) to commercial use, aiming to align with the county's future land use plan.
During the meeting, the applicant's representative introduced key team members, including a transportation engineer and a site engineer, to address any technical questions. The rezoning request is positioned as a response to community needs for commercial development along the Highway 401 corridor, which has seen a trend of similar commercial zoning in the area.
The applicant emphasized that the proposed change is consistent with the recently enacted future land use map, which designates the area for commercial mixed-use development. This designation supports the establishment of retail services, restaurants, and offices, which are seen as essential for fostering economic growth and maintaining a balanced tax base in Harnett County.
The applicant also highlighted the public interest aspect of the proposal, suggesting that a small retail convenience store could serve both local residents and travelers. Concerns raised by residents regarding the safety of the proposed site entrance were acknowledged, but the applicant clarified that such issues would be addressed in a later site plan review, separate from the current rezoning discussion.
In addition to the rezoning request, a resident named Alan Longman raised concerns about the quality of the city water supply, reporting significant failures that could pose health risks. This issue, while not directly related to the rezoning discussion, underscores ongoing community concerns regarding infrastructure and public health.
The meeting concluded with the board's acknowledgment of the discussions, setting the stage for further deliberation on the rezoning request and the broader implications for Harnett County's development strategy.