The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors meeting on September 17, 2025, focused on the Zoning Ordinance Modernization (ZOMod) Alignment Projects, which aim to update various sections of the county code to align with the new zoning ordinance. The meeting included presentations from county officials, including Mr. Hosch, Mr. Donahoe, and Mr. Nannery, who outlined the necessary adjustments to ensure that development processes remain effective as ZOMod is implemented.
The primary discussion centered on aligning Chapter 10 of the Comprehensive Plan with the new zoning tools introduced by ZOMod. Officials emphasized that while the overall vision and density of land use categories will not change, the language and references within the plan must be updated to reflect the new zoning districts. This alignment is crucial for maintaining consistency between the land use plan and the zoning ordinance, which guides development in the county.
Mr. Donahoe provided insights into updates to Chapter 17, which pertains to the subdivision ordinance, while Mr. Nannery discussed changes to Chapter 18, focusing on the water and sewer code. A minor adjustment was also noted for Chapter 8, which involves relocating the Best Management Practices (BMP) maintenance section from the zoning ordinance to the stormwater management code.
The officials clarified that the amendments to Chapter 10 would not alter existing land use densities or boundaries but would instead ensure that the new zoning categories are appropriately referenced. This includes guidelines for amenity spaces, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and the integration of mixed-use developments, which have been increasingly favored by the community.
The meeting concluded with a call for a public hearing next month to discuss these amendments further. The updates are seen as essential for guiding future development in Chesterfield County, ensuring that it aligns with community needs and the vision outlined in the Comprehensive Plan. The board's commitment to modernizing the zoning ordinance reflects an ongoing effort to adapt to changing development trends and community preferences.