County Requests Input for Proposed Zoning Amendments

Bob Woodard, Chairman of the Dare County Board of Commissioners, is encouraging citizens to take time to review the recently proposed zoning amendments that were developed to help facilitate construction of year-round housing in the unincorporated areas and share their thoughts at the public hearing scheduled for October 15.

“There has been talk about the year-round housing issue for years and now the dialogue has opened and the Board of Commissioners is looking for input,” said Woodard. “It’s time to begin addressing the issue by finding creative ways to increase housing opportunities for year-round residents.”

The proposed amendments, presented by Planning Director Donna Creef after review and approval by the Planning Board, involve duplex lot sizes, multi-family dwelling density, accessory dwelling units and cluster lots. During her presentation to Commissioners on October 1, Creef pointed out that there are no income qualifiers associated with the proposed changes and that the goal is to allow some flexibility so the private sector can respond and develop units for year-round housing.

To access the proposed draft amendments and view Creef’s recent presentation to Commissioners, visit www.darenc.com/planning.

The October 15 public hearing is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. in the Commissioners meeting room located at 954 Marshall Collins Drive in Manteo. Comments can also be made via an interactive video link from the Fessenden Center Annex located at 47017 Buxton Back Road.

Those unable to attend the hearing may submit written comments to Donna Creef, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo or email comments to donnac@darenc.com. If you have questions or need additional information, call the Dare County Planning Department at 252.475.5870.