Neighbors oppose proposed Fenton Street rezoning; council continues item after developer meeting pledge

Neighbors near 2200 Fenton Avenue told Richmond City Council they had little notice and raised concerns about density, tree loss and neighborhood character during a public hearing on a developer’s request for a special-use permit to allow three homes on a single lot.

Speakers described surprise at seeing development signs and criticized outreach; multiple residents urged the council to delay action and allow more time for neighborhood meetings. "We weren't given enough information," said Derek Anderson, who asked for a moratorium to allow residents time to organize. Several neighbors said the proposed lot splits would reduce lot sizes to as little as 11 feet and would change the block’s character.

Baker Development Resources, representing the owner, said staff review and the Planning Commission recommended approval and argued the request is consistent with the Richmond 300 future land-use designation. The developer's representative, Alessandro Regazzi, said the special-use permit provides "quality assurances not guaranteed with a by-right development," including sidewalks, street trees and off-street parking and that two houses could be built under current rules and the request is to add one more.

Given the developer's willingness to meet residents and the community concerns expressed in the chamber, the council voted to continue ordinance 2025-148 to the Sept. 8 council meeting to allow additional neighborhood engagement and further discussion.

Votes at a glance: Motion to continue Item 16, Ordinance 2025-148 (Fenton Street SUP) — approved (continuance to Sept. 8).