Planning board recommends conditional rezoning so Sandhills Adult and Teen Challenge can pursue state licensure

The Moore County Planning Board voted to recommend approval of a conditional rezoning for one parcel at 444 Farm Life School Road (approximately 30.9 acres, Parcel ID 00006478) so that Sandhills Adult and Teen Challenge can bring its existing use into zoning conformity and pursue state licensure.

Staff described the site history and said Sandhills Adult and Teen Challenge has operated at the location since 1987, a use predating countywide zoning in 1999, and that the group is seeking conditional rezoning because the group care use is allowed in RA only by conditional rezoning. Ruth Peterson explained the request is not proposing physical changes to the property and that the site largely meets standards for compatibility, buffering and impervious‑surface limits.

Two people signed up to speak in support. Russ Cambria, who identified himself as the organization’s executive director, said the group has operated "for almost 38 years" and that obtaining state licensure would aid fundraising and eligibility for scholarships for clients. A program graduate identified in the transcript as Bridal Decker also urged approval and described personal experience with the program.

After public comment, the board adopted the Planning Board land use plan consistency statement under North Carolina General Statute 160D‑604 and then voted to recommend approval of the conditional rezoning to the Moore County Board of Commissioners. The motion carried by voice vote as recorded in the meeting transcript.

Staff provided identifying details for the rezoning request including the parcel acreage (approximately 30.9 acres), parcel ID (00006478), and the deed reference cited in the packet (Deed Book 6010, Page 492, as stated in the transcript). The recommendation now goes to the Board of Commissioners for final action.