Pacolet council denies rezoning request for 391 Glenn Springs Road after neighborhood concerns

The Pacolet Town Council voted to deny a rezoning request for 391 Glenn Springs Road (RZ 2025-02), rejecting a proposal to change the parcel from multi-family residential to C2 neighborhood commercial.

The parcel’s owner had sought the change with the stated intent to sell the property; the purchaser discussed operating an auction house in the building, which neighbors and some council members said would cause traffic, noise and safety concerns. The planning commission had unanimously recommended denial before the council hearing.

Council members debated the property’s zoning history. Supporters of denial said the town had already adopted a future land-use designation intended to limit intensification at that site and that reversing the map after a prior process risked the appearance of favoritism. One council member argued the town should avoid repeatedly changing a previously negotiated future land-use decision.

Supporters of the owner said commercial reuse could reactivate the boarded-up building and reduce vandalism and blight, but opponents countered that permitting commercial use in the middle of a residential area could worsen neighborhood flooding, parking and late-night noise.

After discussion, the council voted (voice count recorded during the meeting) to deny the rezoning; the denial means the request will not advance to a second reading at this time.

The council also discussed related neighborhood matters during the same agenda item, including the town’s interest in preventing boarded-up properties along primary corridors and ensuring future applicants seek appropriate zoning that aligns with the town’s comprehensive plan.