Board directs Donald Scruggs to draft unified development-code changes; supervisors keep 7,500-sq.-ft. single-family minimum

The board approved a directive to Donald Scruggs, under his contract with the county, to draft changes to the unified development code that would replace current zoning classifications with new designations while leaving rezoning and conditional-use processes unchanged.

During discussion supervisors asked for clarity that the draft would not automatically rezone existing properties; instead, the existing zoning would remain until property owners seek rezoning through the usual process. One supervisor moved to strike single-family classifications that allow lots smaller than 7,500 square feet; the motion to include a 7,500-square-foot minimum for single-family lots was seconded and approved as an amendment to the drafting directive.

Officials said the intent is to create a ladder of new residential classifications (for example r-1-175, r-1-130, etc.) so applicants denied at one step could request an alternative classification rather than be denied outright. Board members were advised that any change that constitutes a direct rezoning would require the public-hearing steps required by statute; at this stage the board instructed Scruggs to prepare the text for review and to bring it back for further action, including required public hearings if necessary.

The motion carried after a vote; the transcript records the board’s approval of the item as amended.