Editor's note: WHQR originally reported that Yopp presented a different plan to the county commissioners at their meeting. The article has been corrected to clarify that there was no change to the presentation Yopp gave to commissioners from the one given to the Planning Board.
James Yopp and his development partners asked to rezone approximately 42 acres of land to allow denser land use. The plans included 10 single-family residential lots and 327 residential townhomes with open space and an amenity center.
The county's planning board voted unanimously against the project. The board felt the development didn’t fit with the county’s planning policy for that specific zoning designation, and did not fit in with neighboring communities. Staff, on the other hand, supported the project — which caused some consternation on the Board of Commissioners.
Yopp said he’d be willing to meet extra conditions to address public concerns.
Chass Hood, who resides near the proposed development, implored board members to keep in mind that Yopp had been given chances in the past to improve on his plans.
“I’m telling you, the infrastructure has never caught up with development, and he’s had multiple opportunities to lower the density of his buildings and he has absolutely refused to do it," Hood said.
After questioning developers and staff, Commissioners gave Yopp the choice to pull his request or proceed with a vote. Yopp chose the latter.
Commissioner Rob Zapple motioned to deny the request. Commissioner LeAnn Pierce seconded the motion, and the rezoning was denied 4 to 1, with Chair Bill Rivenbark as the lone dissenting vote.
Editor's note: This article has been updated to clarify the planning board and staff's perspective.
