Rezoning Request For Proposed Townhome Development Denied

SELMA, N.C. — The Selma Town Council unanimously denied a request to rezone land for a proposed townhome development in their extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) during its March 10 meeting.

Godwin Engineering of Benson petitioned the council to rezone a 17.7-acre tract in the 2000 block of Lizzie Mill Road, on both sides of the two-lane roadway, from R-20 residential to Transitional zoning.

The property is owned by Selma residents Luis Rodriguez and Artemia Garcia.

While the exact number of townhomes proposed was not discussed during the meeting, Transitional zoning would allow a maximum density of up to eight units per acre.

Several residents spoke in opposition to the request during the public hearing.

Kim Frye expressed concerns about potential flooding and stormwater runoff affecting nearby farmland. Jennifer Edwards said she opposed the rezoning because it was inconsistent with the area’s current land use plan. She also raised concerns about increased traffic and safety along Lizzie Mill Road, noting the two-lane roadway has no sidewalks.

Lisa Peedin told the council she was concerned the development could negatively impact surrounding property values.

Council member Susan P. Watson said traffic was one of her primary concerns with the proposed development. Mayor Pro Tem Joe Scarboro said he preferred to keep the property under its current zoning classification.

Mayor Byron McAllister also referenced a recent decision by the council to deny a rezoning request for a tract on Outlet Center Drive that would have allowed a 115-unit development. McAllister said he favored maintaining the existing zoning for the Lizzie Mill Road property as well.

Following the public hearing, the council voted unanimously to deny the rezoning request.