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Residents urge protection of Old Town; Midlothian commission reopens downtown-guidelines committee
Summary
After hours of public comment urging preservation of downtown's historic and residential character, the Planning & Zoning Commission voted 5–0 to send the downtown character-area map and design guidelines back to its advisory committee for revision.
Consultants from Friese Nichols presented a draft downtown character-area map and design guidelines and said the project sought to preserve downtown’s historic, small‑town identity while identifying six character areas with tailored guidance on parking, building form, and lighting. Daniel Harrison (speaker 9) summarized public engagement and said the draft reflects a majority of workshop input to protect residential areas near downtown.
Several residents and advisory members urged the commission to protect Old Town residential neighborhoods. Resident Steven Huddlebaugh said the stakeholder process “listened to us” and urged flexibility; Bobby Whirley (speaker 12), a focus-group member and Parks & Rec board member, said he supported the guidance but asked the commission to use it as strict guidelines to respect Old Town residents’ wishes. Commissioners debated whether the guidelines would 'freeze' development or appropriately guide future rezonings; Commissioner (speaker 8) moved to reopen the committee to address the concerns and produce a “more forward looking document.” The motion passed 5–0, sending the draft back for further committee review before a recommendation to council.
