Proposed Changes to Subdivision Development Ordinance

In 2006 and 2007 the Buncombe Board of Commissioners adopted a Development Ordinance that provides protection for the steep slope areas of our mountains during development.  On April 7, 2008, the county Planning Board voted to recommend to the Commissioners changes to the Development Ordinance that would reverse some of these protections.

Wisely our commissioners returned the proposed changes to the county staff and planning board for further consideration and possible revision.  As the changes are highly controversial, it is unlikely they will be considered by the commissioners before the Nov. election.  With the pending appointment of as many as five new members to the Planning Board and the Nov. election changing the composition of the Buncombe Commission we may shortly have a new ballgame.  Our challenge will be to monitor and educate the new players.