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Board delays decision on Route 7 self-storage rezoning after strong neighborhood opposition
Summary
A rezoning request to allow a three‑story self-storage facility on 2.38 acres along Route 7 in the Redbud District was delayed to the next meeting and the public hearing left open after residents raised safety, land-use and plan‑consistency concerns.
The Board of Supervisors voted March 12 to delay action and leave the public hearing open on a rezoning request for 1124 Route 7 that would permit a three‑story, roughly 40,000‑square‑foot self‑storage facility. The property owner had requested rezoning from B-1 (Neighborhood Business) to B-2 (General Business) with proffers that limit use to self-storage, prohibit outdoor trailer storage and restrict hours to 6 a.m.–10 p.m.
Planning staff said the rezoning would allow the proposed self-storage; staff also noted the planning commission recommended approval on Feb. 19. Residents from Pioneer Heights and neighboring properties expressed opposition, submitting a petition and raising concerns about consistency with the county’s comprehensive plan, safety on the Route 7 corridor, tourism and neighborhood character.
Stephen Carter (Red Bud District) said more than 50 residents signed a petition opposing the rezoning and urged the board to delay the vote, citing alternatives such as other vacant B-2 parcels and the county’s comprehensive-plan goals for residential and mixed use. Leslie Spencer (Gainsborough District) said the corridor should prioritize small businesses and tourism-oriented uses, not additional self-storage.
Supervisor discussion noted that under the current B-1 zoning the landowner already has by-right uses, such as professional offices, veterinarians, restaurants and fitness centers, and that property owners may exercise those rights without further board approval. The board acknowledged neighbors’ concerns and voted to delay the item to the next regular meeting, with the public hearing to remain open so those who wished to speak again could do so; the motion passed unanimously on a roll-call vote.
The board also asked staff to arrange time for additional conversations between neighbors and the applicant so outstanding questions raised at the planning commission could be addressed before the board’s final decision.
