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Henderson council denies rezoning for two Dabney Drive parcels amid traffic concerns
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Summary
The Henderson City Council voted 6-1 on July 13 to deny Ordinance 20-20, a request to rezone 1337 and 1343 Dabney Drive from OIA to B-2A, citing potential traffic impacts on Lynne Avenue and neighborhood concerns; Council asked staff to consult N.C. DOT about access issues.
The Henderson City Council voted 6-1 on July 13 to deny Ordinance 20-20, a rezoning request for 1337 and 1343 Dabney Drive that would have changed the parcels from OIA (Office Institutional A) to B-2A (Highway Commercial A).
Development Services Director Corey Williams told councilors the Planning Board recommended approval but noted cautions about possible traffic problems. City Manager Edward T. Blackmon reminded the body the rezoning question applies to the property rather than any specific proposed use.
Business interests and a local realty representative urged approval. The City Clerk read two written comments in favor; Harold N. Frazier of Frasco Realty said the rezoning would “progress and accelerate growth,” and an email from Carl Edwards said Dabney Drive has become a commercial thoroughfare. Hill Dubose, who spoke during the hearing, said his family-owned company views the change as consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and said it could create jobs; he also said he would work with the city on traffic concerns.
Nearby residents opposed the request. Jeanetta Lyons urged converting the end of Lynne Avenue into a cul-de-sac to limit traffic. Linnoya Williams-Royster asked what had changed since a similar request was rejected the prior year and said she was concerned about preserving the area’s residential character.
Council members raised questions about valuation methods and traffic. Council Member Melissa Elliott asked whether Lynne Avenue could be closed; Council Member Garry Daeke suggested contacting the North Carolina Department of Transportation for guidance on safe ingress and egress if development occurs. Council Member Jason A. Spriggs was the lone vote in favor; the motion to deny, made by Daeke and seconded by Elliott, was approved with Williams, Coffey, Burnette, Elliott, Daeke and Simmons voting yes and Spriggs voting no.
The council’s motion included a request that staff consult N.C. DOT regarding traffic control options in the event the property is developed. The ordinance denial is recorded in Ordinance Book 10, p. 763.