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Hildebran permits K–12 schools by right in several districts, keeps colleges subject to special-use review
Summary
The council approved ZTA 26-2 on March 11, 2026, separating K–12 schools from colleges/universities in the zoning ordinance and permitting primary and secondary schools by right in specified districts while retaining Special Use Permit review for colleges.
HILDEBRAN — On March 11 the Town Council adopted Ordinance #03-11-26.2 (ZTA 26-2), which separates ‘‘Schools (K–12)’’ from ‘‘Colleges/Universities’’ in the zoning ordinance and allows K–12 schools to be permitted by right in several zoning districts.
Town Planner Katelyn Smith told the council the current code groups schools and colleges together and subjects both to Special Use Permit review, which can be an unnecessary quasi‑judicial process for community-serving K–12 schools. Staff proposed distinguishing the uses so K–12 schools could proceed through administrative site‑plan review while remaining subject to applicable development standards.
Under the amendment, Schools (K–12) would be permitted by right in Residential districts (including R‑10), Neighborhood Business, Highway Business and the Central Business District. Colleges and universities would continue to require a Special Use Permit in all districts.
The Planning Board reviewed the amendment and provided a consistency statement recommending approval. There were no public comments during the hearing. Council Member Jody York moved to approve ZTA 26-2 and the motion passed with all members present voting in favor. The ordinance and consistency statement were incorporated into the meeting minutes.
