The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met virtually on September 21, 2021, at 6:00 PM to consider a text amendment, four rezoning requests, and a preliminary plat. The commission approved a text amendment to allow firearms and ammunition sales as accessory uses to shooting ranges, approved two rezoning requests (Brighton EC and Gregory Jones), approved a preliminary plat (The Dickinson), and narrowly approved a rezoning for Bells Fork Partners after a tied vote. The meeting also included public comments, discussions on conditional zoning, and a brief remark about returning to in-person meetings. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the August 17, 2021 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Text Amendment (Item 2): Mike Biggerstaff (applicant representative) and Rick Dahlia (proponent) spoke in favor, stating that the amendment would allow combined gun sales and shooting ranges, which are common in the region. No opposition speakers were registered. - Rezoning – Brighton EC (Item 3): Scott Anderson (applicant representative) spoke in favor, explaining that the rezoning would enable a clubhouse and pool for the existing Brighton Park apartments. Amy Howell (neighboring property owner) spoke in opposition, citing safety concerns, congestion, and the risk of children near West 5th Street. A letter from Dr. Rowe was also referenced but not read into the record. - Rezoning – Gregory Jones (Item 4): Scott Anderson spoke in favor, noting that the rezoning would allow flexibility for development and that the applicant had met with adjacent property owners to address concerns. No opposition speakers were registered. Two letters in favor from Collis Moore and Matt Wilkerson were acknowledged. - Rezoning – Bells Fork Partners (Item 5): Scott Anderson and Dustin Mills (applicant representatives) spoke in favor, stating that a self-storage use (low-traffic) was proposed after a previous multifamily proposal was denied by city council. No opposition speakers were registered. - Preliminary Plat – The Dickinson (Item 6): Igor Pali Voda (civil engineer for the applicant) spoke in favor, highlighting the benefit of connecting Manning Forest Drive to Dickinson Avenue and Williams Road. Discussion Items - Text Amendment (Item 2): Commissioners questioned whether the proposed gun sales met the legal definition of an accessory use (subordinate and dependent on the primary use). Staff clarified that the amendment ties gun sales to the shooting range, and the applicant stated that both would be built together. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval. - Rezoning – Brighton EC (Item 3): Discussion focused on the small lot size (1.005 acres) and compatibility with adjacent multifamily zoning. Staff noted negligible traffic impact. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval. - Rezoning – Gregory Jones (Item 4): Commissioners discussed the 57.927-acre site, traffic generation (377 net trips per day), buffering (50-foot strip left in R6S, 100-foot conservation overlay), and the importance of sidewalks. Commissioner Hap raised concerns about sprawl and lack of pedestrian infrastructure. Staff noted that sidewalks would be required along 10th Street. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval. - Rezoning – Bells Fork Partners (Item 5): Staff recommended denial because the proposed general commercial zoning (CG) is inconsistent with the future land use plan, which envisions a buffer between commercial and single-family. The applicant argued that the CG zoning is contiguous with existing commercial and that a self-storage use would generate only 174 trips per day, versus 2,400 trips for general commercial. Commissioners debated the unique configuration of the 7.773-acre property, the history of a previous denial, and the need for conditional zoning. A motion to deny failed 3-4 (Brock, Maxwell in favor; Robinson, Overton, Joyner, Collins, Thomas against). A subsequent motion to recommend approval (noting inconsistency with the comprehensive plan but appropriateness) passed 4-3 (Robinson, Overton, Collins, Thomas in favor; Joyner, Maxwell, Brock against). - Preliminary Plat – The Dickinson (Item 6): Staff presented the 22.745-acre plat for two lots. The plat includes the extension of Manning Forest Drive to Dickinson Avenue and access to Williams Road. No questions were raised. The commission voted unanimously to approve. Key Outcomes - Text Amendment (Item 2): Approved unanimously (7-0) to recommend adoption by city council. - Rezoning – Brighton EC (Item 3): Approved unanimously (7-0) to recommend approval. - Rezoning – Gregory Jones (Item 4): Approved unanimously (7-0) to recommend approval. - Rezoning – Bells Fork Partners (Item 5): Recommended approval by a vote of 4-3 (Robinson, Overton, Collins, Thomas for; Joyner, Maxwell, Brock against). The motion included language that the zoning is not consistent with the comprehensive plan but is appropriate in this instance. - Preliminary Plat – The Dickinson (Item 6): Approved unanimously (7-0). - Other: A commissioner requested that city council consider adopting conditional zoning to allow more specific use controls. The meeting was adjourned.
Public Meetings - Greenville, North Carolina
Public Meetings - Greenville, North CarolinaNote: The meeting agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on July 20, 2021. The given date of August 19, 2021 is used per instructions, but there is a discrepancy. The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met to consider preliminary plats, rezonings, a land use plan amendment, and commission officer elections. The meeting was the first to follow new single-meeting format under House Bill 812, with public comments heard before votes. All items except one were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 15, 2021): Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Second Reading of Revised Rules of Procedures: Amended to clarify conflict of interest procedures and public comment format. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Falling Creek Subdivision (Preliminary Plat): Greg McKinney (HOA president, Summers Walk) opposed the connection to Naples Drive, citing a fourfold traffic increase and safety concerns. Kathy Meyer (civil engineer, Oak Hill Farms) raised floodplain and watershed study limitations. Jerry Eatman (counsel to Summers Walk HOA) argued the connection would violate street design standards. Igor Palivoda (design consultant) spoke in favor, noting the plat was previously approved a decade ago and meets technical requirements. - Rezoning at Dickinson Avenue (Item 4): Igor Palivoda spoke in favor; Edward Clark (adjacent resident) opposed, citing loss of residential character and traffic concerns. - Rezoning at Allen Road (Item 5): Brian Fagundis (developer representative) spoke in favor, noting net traffic decrease. No opposition. - Allen Ridge Preliminary Plat (Item 6): No public opposition. - Land Use Plan Amendment (Item 7): Landon Weaver (Bill Clark Homes) spoke in favor, describing a single-family project and potential sewer extension. Wayne Austin and Reggie Gardner (Rolling Meadows residents) opposed, citing flooding, traffic, and overdevelopment concerns. Discussion Items - Falling Creek Subdivision (Item 2): Staff confirmed the plat meets all technical requirements. City engineer Daryl Norris stated stormwater detention regulations apply and that the Hardy Creek watershed study limits were due to city boundaries. Traffic engineer Rick DeCaesar explained cross-connections are standard for emergency access and traffic reduction. The commission noted their hands were tied by technical requirements. - Rezoning at Allen Road (Item 5): Staff noted the MR zoning is density-equivalent to R6 and is consistent with the comprehensive plan. The site could yield 400 multifamily units versus 305,000 sq ft of office under current zoning. - Land Use Plan Amendment (Item 7): Track 1 would change from low-medium to medium-high density; tracks 2-4 are outside city limits and would be added to the FLUM. Staff argued the amendment aligns with existing land use patterns. Commissioner Maxwell expressed concern about traffic but hoped stormwater improvements would help. The vote was 5-2. - Election of Officers: Chair Les Robinson was term-limited. Kevin Faison was nominated and elected Chair unanimously. Chris West was elected Vice Chair 7-1 (West voted no). Faison noted he would have back surgery and may miss early meetings; West could preside in his absence. Key Outcomes - Falling Creek Subdivision (Preliminary Plat): Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Rezoning at Dickinson Avenue (Item 4): Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Rezoning at Allen Road (Item 5): Motion to recommend approval to City Council passed unanimously. - Allen Ridge Preliminary Plat (Item 6): Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Land Use Plan Amendment (Item 7): Motion to recommend approval to City Council passed 5-2 (Commissioners Maxwell and Faison opposed). - Rules of Procedures: Adopted with amendment. - Officers: Kevin Faison elected Chair, Chris West elected Vice Chair.
[Introductory paragraph: The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM on the date of August 19, 2021, per the provided timestamp. However, the agenda and transcript indicate the meeting actually took place on June 15, 2021. The commission reviewed and approved previous minutes, considered a continuance of a preliminary plat, and discussed revisions to its rules of procedure.] Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from May 18, 2021 and May 20, 2021: Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Preliminary Plat – Falling Creek Subdivision: A request by S&B Properties ENC, LLC for a preliminary plat for 164 single-family lots and 2 multi-family lots on 72.475 acres along NC Highway 43 South. The commission received a motion to continue the item to the July 20, 2021 meeting from Mike Baldwin. The commission unanimously voted to continue the item. - Revision of Planning and Zoning Commission Rules of Procedures: The commission reviewed proposed revisions. City Attorney McGurk noted that the rules would require a second reading in July, and that clerical revisions were needed, including correcting a reference in Section 1 and reviewing the conflict of interest section for compliance with state law. The commission took no action at this meeting, with the expectation of a vote in July. Key Outcomes - The minutes from May 18 and May 20, 2021, were approved unanimously. - The Falling Creek Subdivision preliminary plat was continued to the July 20, 2021 meeting by unanimous vote. - The proposed revisions to the rules of procedures were presented for first reading; no vote was taken. The commission will reconvene in July for a second reading and potential vote. - The meeting was adjourned with no items requiring a Thursday session. The next meeting in August is expected to be in person. Note: The meeting date is given as August 19, 2021, but all documentation (agenda and transcript) refers to June 15, 2021.
Note: The meeting agenda and transcript indicate the meeting was held on July 22, 2021, but the provided instruction specifies the date as August 19, 2021. This summary uses the instructed date while noting the discrepancy. The Greenville Board of Adjustment held a virtual evidentiary hearing on August 19, 2021, at 6:00 PM via Zoom. Chair Michael Glenn presided. The board heard seven special use permit requests, all of which were approved unanimously. The meeting also included approval of the June 24, 2021 minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – June 24, 2021: Motion by Rodney Bullock, seconded by Ann Bellis. The minutes were approved unanimously by all seven voting members present. Discussion Items Old Business 1. VSS Arlington, LLC – Tobacco Shop Class 1 (215 E. Arlington, Suite D) - Staff Report (Elizabeth Blunt): The applicant sought to change from a previously denied tobacco shop Class 2 to a Class 1 tobacco shop, which cannot sell water pipes or bowls. The property is zoned CG (General Commercial) and is in an office/institutional character area, though the existing unit is vacant. Staff recommended conditions including no LED/flashing signs, no lottery, no smoking on premises, and compliance with all codes. - Applicant (Samir Ahmad, franchise owner): Expressed full support for the project, describing it as a high-end boutique smoke shop that would contribute to the local economy. Stated they would abide by all conditions, including no flashing lights. - Board Discussion: Ann Bellis noted the recommended conditions adequately address prior concerns about signage. - Decision: The board approved the special use permit with staff-recommended conditions. Vote: unanimous. 2. Shiloam Affairs, LLC – Convention Center (215 E. Arlington, Suite E) - Staff Report: The applicant proposes a convention center in the same building as the tobacco shop. Staff recommended conditions including no alcoholic beverages outside, noise limits (65 dBA 7 a.m.–11 p.m., 60 dBA 11 p.m.–12 a.m.), security guard on site during events, and hours not to exceed 12 a.m. - Applicant (Mona Gillam, leaseholder): Described the space as a daytime Wi‑Fi workspace (like a Starbucks) and an after‑hours private convention venue for events such as celebrations and conferences. Emphasized screening of renters and safety measures. - Board Discussion: No questions from board. - Decision: Motion by Rodney Bullock, seconded by Nathan Cohen. Unanimous approval with staff conditions. New Business 1. Kiel Slayton & Ravens Thorn, LLC – Microblading (2708 A E. 10th Street) - Staff Report: The applicant seeks to operate a microblading/microshading studio. The property is zoned CG with residential to the south. Staff recommended conditions requiring a health department permit and compliance with state sanitation and waste disposal rules. - Applicant (Keel Slayton): Explained microblading as cosmetic brow enhancement. The studio (Ravens Rose) will employ two trained individuals. Stated future ambitions included adding lip blush, eyeliner, scalp pigmentation, and eventually a med‑spa, but noted the current permit is only for microblading/microshading. - Board Questions: Ann Bellis asked about licensing – Slayton confirmed no state board oversees microblading, but they completed a five‑day training course in Raleigh. John Landrine asked for a description of the procedure. - Decision: Motion by Rodney Bullock, seconded by Ann Bellis. Unanimous approval with staff conditions. 2. Kiel Slayton & Ravens Thorn, LLC – Tattoo Shop (2706 A E. 10th Street) - Staff Report: Same property, different unit. Applicant proposes a tattoo shop. Conditions require a health department permit, compliance with North Carolina tattooing regulations (NCGS 14‑400 for minors), and no lottery. - Applicant: Briefly confirmed the application is for a tattooing studio. - Board Discussion: No questions. - Decision: Motion by Rodney Bullock, seconded by John Landrine. Unanimous approval with staff conditions. 3. Sheetz, Inc. – Convenience Store with Gas, Restaurant Drive‑Through (1000 Charles Boulevard) - Staff Report: This is an amendment to a 2007 special use permit. Sheetz proposes to demolish the existing store and an adjoining office building, rebuild on a 2.05‑acre site covering the entire block. The new store will be 6,000 sq ft (vs. 5,000), include indoor seating for 30, outdoor dining for 16, a drive‑through, and 44 parking spaces. The number of gas pumps remains the same. Staff recommended multiple conditions addressing pedestrian access, screening, lighting, noise, and outdoor amplified sound. - Applicant (represented by attorney Phil Dixon): Called three expert witnesses: - James Gerhardt (Director of Real Estate, Sheetz) – testified to the need for a drive‑through due to customer demand, especially post‑COVID; the store will have 26 employees plus 5 new hires; a $4.5 million investment. - Dwight Bernelson (Professional Engineer) – testified that the site redesign improves traffic safety by adding concrete medians on Charles Boulevard to prevent left turns, and provides access on all four streets. Nearest residence to outdoor dining is 162 feet. - Tom Anastasi (Engineering Permitting Manager) – testified to updated technology, new underground storage tanks, ethanol‑free gas, and modern lighting. - Board Discussion: No questions from board members. - Decision: Motion by Rodney Bullock, seconded by John Landrine. Unanimous approval with staff conditions. 4. Bret Flory – Major Repair Facility (Whitley Drive) - Staff Report: The applicant (architect for Caliber Collision) proposes a 14,600 sq ft auto body paint and repair facility on 2.2 acres zoned CG. Conditions require screened vehicle storage, all work inside, no junkyard, and site plan approval. - Applicant (Brett Flory, professional architect): Testified that Caliber Collision is the world’s largest collision repair company. The building will have a covered drop‑off, brick and stone exterior, and all work performed indoors. No tires will be stored on site. - Board Discussion: Ann Bellis raised a concern about tires stored outdoors holding water and breeding mosquitoes. The applicant agreed to a condition prohibiting any outdoor tire storage. - Decision: Motion by Ann Bellis, seconded by Rodney Bullock, to approve with staff conditions plus an additional condition of no outdoor tire storage, citing health, safety, and nuisance criteria. Unanimous. 5. Greenville Community Services, LLC – Child Day Care Facility (901 Staton Road) - Staff Report: The applicant seeks to rescind an existing special use permit for an elementary school and expand the child day care use. The property is 11.78 acres zoned IU (Industrial) in the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction. The facility will house Pitt County Head Start (40,915 sq ft) and an after‑school program (7,624 sq ft). Staff had no objections. - Applicant: Trey Greer (owner) voluntarily surrendered the previous permit. Donnie Phillips (leaseholder) described the facility as secure, fenced, and serving pre‑K and after‑school students. Xantra Best (Head Start director) confirmed success and no schedule conflict between Head Start (8 a.m.–2:30 p.m.) and after‑school program. - Board Discussion: No questions. - Decision: First, unanimous vote to accept voluntary surrender of the elementary school permit. Then, motion by Rodney Bullock, seconded by Sharon Evans, to approve the child day care special use permit with staff conditions. Unanimous. Key Outcomes All seven special use permit requests were approved unanimously. The board also approved the June 24, 2021 minutes. Additional conditions were added for the major repair facility (no outdoor tire storage). Staff conditions from the planning department were incorporated into each approval. The meeting adjourned at an unreported time. Note: This meeting was the board’s last virtual meeting; future meetings will be held in person at City Hall.
The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on August 17, 2021, at 6:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The commission considered rezoning requests, preliminary plats, and text amendments. All votes were unanimous. Two agenda items were continued to the September 21, 2021 meeting. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the July 20, 2021 meeting were approved by a motion from Les Robinson, seconded by Billy Parker, with all members voting in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (Evelyn Dail et al. rezoning): John Day, a commercial real estate broker representing the property owners, spoke in favor. He noted the property is under contract for a funeral home and requested approval. - Item 3 (Bill Clark Homes rezoning): Brad Weaver, representing Bill Clark Homes, spoke in favor. He stated the project meets the future land use plan and that he had met with a neighbor who was satisfied with plans for traffic and stormwater. - Item 5 (Lynndale East preliminary plat): David Evans, developer with Greenbrier Realty Company, spoke in favor. He described the plat as a small addition to a previously approved plan. Discussion Items - Item 2 – Rezoning (Evelyn Dail et al.): A request to rezone 3.547 acres at the northeastern corner of East 10th Street and Port Terminal Road from RA20 (Residential-Agricultural) and CN (Neighborhood Commercial) to CG (General Commercial). The property is across from Lowe’s. Staff found the request compliant with the Horizons plan. The applicant noted the property is across from existing commercial and near two cemeteries. The commission voted unanimously to approve. - Item 3 – Rezoning (Bill Clark Homes): A request to rezone 113.5902 acres along Highway 33 East from RR/AR (Pitt County and Simpson jurisdictions) to R6S (Residential-Single Medium Density) on Tract 1 (107.0381 acres) and from GB to GC (General Commercial) on Tract 2 (6.5521 acres). The future land use plan had been amended in July. The property is in the Tar River watershed; part is in a flood hazard area. A traffic impact analysis will be required later. Staff recommended approval. The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to City Council. - Item 4 – Preliminary Plat (The Dickinson): A request by Caldreams, LLC for a 2-lot plat on 23.034 acres south of Dickinson Avenue. Staff requested a continuance because several reviewers had not yet approved it. The commission voted unanimously to continue the item to the September 21, 2021 meeting. - Item 5 – Preliminary Plat (Lynndale East Section 5): A request by Greenbrier Realty Company for a 7-lot plat on 4.2 acres at the terminus of Remington Drive. The plat meets all technical requirements. Staff recommended approval. During discussion, a commissioner raised concerns about through traffic on Remington Drive potentially connecting to Stonehenge Drive; the developer indicated they plan to extend Remington Drive eventually. The commission voted unanimously to approve the preliminary plat. - Item 6 – Text Amendment (Firearms Accessory Use): A request by Mitchell Meeks to allow firearms, accessories, and gunsmithing as accessory uses to shooting ranges. The applicant requested a continuance. The commission voted unanimously to continue the item to the September 21, 2021 meeting. Commissioner Les Robinson encouraged members to visit an indoor shooting range in Kinston to inform future decisions. - Item 7 – Text Amendment (Planning Department): A staff-initiated amendment to the city code to: (1) add licensed contractors (general, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, etc. excluding outside storage) as a permitted use in CH, IU, I, PIU, and PI districts; (2) add ambulance service as a permitted use in MI, MS, MCG, and MCH districts (and, per staff clarification, also in MO district); and (3) reduce the requirement for fast food restaurants in the MO district from three attached units to two. Staff explained the amendments bring the code up to date. Ambulance service was not previously allowed in medical districts; the MO district was included by intent. The commission voted unanimously to approve the amendments as presented (with the MO district inclusion noted for documentation). Key Outcomes - Item 2 (Rezoning – Dail): Approved unanimously (motion by Michael Overton, second by Les Robinson). - Item 3 (Rezoning – Bill Clark Homes): Motion to recommend approval to City Council passed unanimously (motion by Michael Overton, second by Billy Parker). - Item 4 (Preliminary Plat – The Dickinson): Continued to September 21, 2021, by unanimous vote (motion by Michael Overton, second by Billy Parker). - Item 5 (Preliminary Plat – Lynndale East): Approved unanimously (motion by John Collins, second by Max Ray Joyner). - Item 6 (Text Amendment – Firearms): Continued to September 21, 2021, by unanimous vote (motion by Pat Maxwell, second by Les Robinson). - Item 7 (Text Amendment – Planning Department): Approved unanimously (motion by Brad Goose, second by Max Ray Joyner). - All actions taken by the commission are recommendations to City Council (except preliminary plats, which are final decisions).
The Greenville Board of Adjustment met virtually on June 24, 2021, at 6:00 PM to consider several special use permit applications, two withdrawn old business items, a proposed decision order for the Coastal Plain Shooting Academy, and officer elections. All votes taken during the meeting were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Unanimous approval of the minutes from the May 27, 2021 meeting. - Two old business items (Captains United LLC requests for multifamily and dormitory special use permit amendments) were withdrawn by the applicant; no vote required. Public Comments & Testimony - VSS Arlington LLC (Tobacco Shop Class 2): Applicant Mona Gillum expressed disappointment after learning an hour before the meeting that a separation requirement was not met. Co-applicant Samir Ahmad described the setback as discouraging for a new business. Both consented to a continuance. - Sabre Companies LLC (Child Day Care): Applicant Billy Walton (owner) testified that the facility has operated for six years and plans to replace modular units with a permanent building. Expert witness Brian Fagundis (professional engineer) stated the project is in compliance with city regulations and the comprehensive plan. - Circle K Stores, Inc. (Convenience Store with Gasoline Sales and Outdoor Dining): Lead applicant Rick Baker (professional engineer) presented the site plan, noting two driveways and existing vegetation along the eastern boundary. Brian Downs (civil project manager) confirmed that stormwater runoff would be captured by a regional detention pond, not the adjacent creek. - Prism Powder Coating & Hydrographics, Inc. (Industrial Use - Powder Coating): Timothy Moore (owner) testified that the business has operated for nine years and is seeking to purchase the property on Diamond Drive to build a new facility. Discussion Items - VSS Arlington LLC Continuance: Staff reported that a required separation distance for a tobacco shop was not met. The board unanimously voted to continue the hearing to the July meeting. Board member McKinnon suggested addressing regulations on blinking colored lights when the case is reconsidered. - Sabre Companies LLC: Staff recommended one condition (compliance with city, federal, and state day care regulations). No objections were raised. The board unanimously approved the permit with the condition. - Circle K Stores, Inc.: Board member Bellis expressed concern about stormwater and water quality, urging that the existing vegetation buffer along the creek be preserved as a condition. Applicant representatives stated that over 95% of the vegetation would be retained and that all impervious runoff would be treated in a regional detention pond designed for a 10-year storm. The board discussed the adequacy of the stormwater management but ultimately approved the permit with the recommended conditions, including that no amplified sound shall be audible from residential properties and that outdoor dining areas be screened. - Prism Powder Coating & Hydrographics, Inc.: Staff recommended three conditions: vehicles awaiting service must be stored at the rear and screened; all services performed inside an enclosed building; and a floodplain development permit required prior to building permit. The applicant agreed. The board unanimously approved the permit. - Coastal Plain Shooting Academy Decision and Order: The board reviewed a proposed written order for a previously granted special use permit. Board member Landrine noted that finding of fact 12 states retail sales of firearms and ammunition are not permitted under the current approval. The applicant had been informed that a text amendment would be required for such sales. After discussion, the board unanimously adopted the proposed order as presented. Key Outcomes - VSS Arlington LLC: Public hearing continued to July 2021 meeting due to unmet separation requirement (unanimous vote: 7 in favor, with board members Glenn, Bullock, Bellis, McKinnon, Lilly, Evans, Cohen, and Landrine voting yes; Evans and Landrine voting remotely). - Sabre Companies LLC: Special use permit for child day care facility approved unanimously (7-0) with one staff-recommended condition. - Circle K Stores, Inc.: Special use permit for convenience store with gasoline sales and outdoor dining approved unanimously (7-0) with all recommended conditions. Board discussion encouraged preservation of the existing riparian buffer. - Prism Powder Coating & Hydrographics, Inc.: Special use permit for powder coating facility approved unanimously (7-0) with three conditions. - Coastal Plain Shooting Academy: Board unanimously adopted the proposed Decision and Order granting the special use permit (7-0). - Officer Elections: Michael Glenn was re-elected Chair (unanimous vote: 9 in favor including alternates) and Rodney Bullock was re-elected Vice Chair (unanimous). Terms are effective for the July 2021 meeting. - Upcoming Meetings: Staff announced that the July 2021 meeting will remain virtual, with about five to six items on the agenda. In-person meetings are expected to resume in August 2021.
The Greenville Board of Adjustment met virtually on May 27, 2021, to consider several special use permit requests. The board approved a permit for Coastal Plain Shooting Academy for an indoor firearm range, granted a continuance for Captains United LLC, approved a permit for Greenville Treatment Center LLC for an opioid treatment facility, and also approved a written order from the previous meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (April 22, 2021): Approved unanimously. - Continuance for Captains United LLC (3960 Bostic Drive and 3800 Bostic Drive): The board voted unanimously to continue both items to a future meeting as requested by the applicant. Public Comments & Testimony - Coastal Plain Shooting Academy: - Applicant Michael Biggerstaff and Mitchell Meeks (investors with an option to purchase) proposed an indoor firearm and archery range at 100 Staton Road. They stated that 90% of firearms used would be handguns, with a maximum caliber of .308, and that the range would be highly soundproofed with concrete and insulation. - Ken Malpass testified as an expert civil engineer, confirming site plan compliance. - Opponent Charles Burnett, representing adjacent Coastal AgriBusiness (chemical manufacturer with corporate headquarters 125 yards from the site), raised concerns about noise, safety (employees bringing weapons), property value decline (citing a Realtor.com article showing 3.7% decrease for residential), environmental lead contamination from a stream flowing onto his property, and market confusion with the name "Coastal Plains Shooting Academy." He argued the use was inconsistent with the comprehensive plan for industrial recruitment. - Greenville Treatment Center LLC: - Applicant Macy Ham (manager of the LLC, with 20 years of experience) described the need for opioid treatment services in Pitt County, citing a Trillium request for proposals. She explained the facility would operate 7 days a week, 5:30 AM to 2:00 PM, offering medication, counseling, and supervision. No opposition was registered. - Mike Baldwin (facilitator) and Andy Piner (expert property appraiser, MAI designation) also testified in support. Discussion Items - Coastal Plain Shooting Academy: The board debated noise concerns, with Mr. Burnett presenting examples of soundproofing failures. Chair Glenn noted the applicant bore the risk of compliance. Mr. McKinnon expressed concern that a shooting range was not within the intended scope of the industrial park and could deter future tenants. A vote on the criteria "existing use detrimental" resulted in a 6-1 split, with Mr. McKinnon dissenting. The final approval passed 6-1. - Greenville Treatment Center LLC: Board members questioned the qualifications of Mr. Baldwin (a surveyor, not a civil engineer) but accepted his role as a facilitator. The board acknowledged the applicant's thorough preparation and the lack of opposition, leading to a unanimous vote. - Mango Man Written Order (from April 22 meeting): The board added this item to the agenda by unanimous vote. After discussion, the order was approved 5-0 (Mr. Bullock and Mr. Cohen were recused; Mr. McKinnon did not vote as he had not read the order). Key Outcomes - Coastal Plain Shooting Academy: Approved 6-1 (Mr. McKinnon dissenting) with conditions: all shooting must occur indoors within a sound control facility; noise levels must comply with city noise ordinance; no outdoor shooting, loitering, or outdoor activities; a final plat must be recorded; and the facility must maintain all required state and federal licenses. The attorney was directed to draft the written decision for the June 24, 2021 meeting. - Captains United LLC: Both special use permit requests were continued to a future meeting. - Greenville Treatment Center LLC: Approved unanimously with conditions: compliance with all state and federal requirements, licensing, and regulations; clients may not wait or be outside without staff supervision. - Mango Man Written Order: Approved 5-0, finalizing the decision from the April 22, 2021 meeting. - Announcements: Elections for Chair and Vice Chair will be held at the next meeting.
The Planning and Zoning Commission reconvened on May 20, 2021, at 11:15 AM to vote on items heard during the May 18 meeting. The meeting opened with prayer, roll call (quorum present), and proceeded through five agenda items, followed by discussions on meeting procedures and return to in-person meetings. Discussion Items - Item 2 – Happy Trail Farms LLC Rezoning (7.2 acres on Port Terminal Road): Request to rezone from R6A to R6 for market-rate apartments. Commissioner Maxwell moved to deny, citing inconsistency with the comprehensive plan and concerns about sensitive/flood-prone lands. The motion to deny failed 4–2. A subsequent motion by Commissioner Joyner to approve (with an inconsistency statement and adopting the staff report) passed 4–2, recommending approval of the rezoning. - Item 4 – Text Amendment by Michael Baldwin to Add Uses (Warehousing, etc.): The applicant requested withdrawal of the request. Commission unanimously approved the withdrawal. - Item 5 – City of Greenville Rezoning (5.2345 acres between East First Street and Tar River): Request to rezone from OR and R6 to CD for potential commercial development. Fifteen written public comments (from 16 individuals) were received; most opposed the rezoning due to loss of green space. Commissioner Maxwell moved to deny, stating the park space is heavily used and the comprehensive plan suggests redeveloping along First Street without sacrificing parkland. Commissioner Joyner supported the city’s future river development plans. The motion to deny resulted in a 3–3 tie; Chair Robinson voted to approve the motion to deny, thereby denying the rezoning 4–3. - Item 6 – Text Amendment to Add Dance Studio and Delivery Service: Staff amendment proposed expanding allowed uses in several districts. Commissioner Overton disclosed prior discussions with staff about a potential user but had no conflict. Motion to approve (with consistency statement) passed unanimously. - Item 7 – Ordinance to Adopt Title IX for State Law Compliance: Required by N.C. General Statutes Chapter 160D. Motion to approve passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Item 2: Recommended approval (4–2) – forward to City Council. - Item 4: Withdrawal approved unanimously. - Item 5: Recommended denial (4–3) – forward to City Council. - Item 6: Text amendment approved unanimously. - Item 7: Ordinance approved unanimously. - Meeting Procedures (Public Comment Limits): Commission reached consensus to recommend a 30‑minute limit per side (proponent and opponent) for public comments, with the first speaker allowed 5 minutes and subsequent speakers 3 minutes. Staff will draft rule changes for formal consideration at the June meeting. - Return to In-Person Meetings: Commission unanimously passed a motion requesting City Council to allow in-person meetings as soon as possible, citing the desire for normalcy and easier public participation. The motion noted that safety measures and distancing could be arranged for larger crowds.
The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on May 18, 2021, at 6:00 PM via Zoom to hear presentations and public comments on several rezoning and text amendment requests. Final votes on most items were deferred to the reconvened meeting on May 20, 2021, as per the commission's standard two-session format. Two items—approval of minutes and a withdrawal request—were voted upon and approved unanimously. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from April 20, 2021, and April 27, 2021, were approved unanimously. Old Business Withdrawal of Item 3 - A motion to withdraw the rezoning request by Shared Risk Holdings, LLC (18.827 acres at West 5th Street and Sean Drive) was approved unanimously. Item 2: Happy Trail Farms, LLC Rezoning - Staff presented a request to rezone 17.2 acres on Port Terminal Road from R6A (Residential Medium Density Multi-family) to R6 (Residential High Density Multi-family). Staff recommended denial, noting the property was recently rezoned to R6A and that R6 exceeds the density recommended by the Future Land Use Plan. The property has 3.3 acres of wetlands, limiting development. - Public Comment: Ashley Elks, a representative of the applicant, spoke in favor, stating that the site could yield 216 units under R6 (vs. 144 under R6A) despite environmental constraints, that a city study showed demand for market-rate apartments, and that the project is locally owned. No one spoke in opposition. - The commission will vote on this item on May 20, 2021. New Business Item 4: Text Amendment – Warehouse/Mini-storage in MCH District - Staff presented a request by Michael Baldwin to allow warehouse or mini-storage (including outside storage) as a special use in the Medical-Heavy Commercial (MCH) district. Staff recommended denial, arguing the use is not complementary to the medical area and could consume land designated for mixed-use development. - Public Comment: Ashley Elks spoke in favor, describing a planned 46,000 sq. ft. climate-controlled self-storage facility on Allen Road with temporary RV/boat parking. Discussion clarified that if approved, each site would still require a special use permit. No one spoke in opposition. - The commission will vote on this item on May 20, 2021. Item 5: City of Greenville Rezoning to CD - Staff requested to rezone 5.2345 acres near the Town Common (between East 1st Street and the Tar River) from OR (Office-Residential) and R6 to CD (Downtown Commercial). Staff recommended approval, citing consistency with the Horizons Plan and the downtown character. The site is in a floodplain and floodway, requiring no-rise certification and other permits. No public comments were made. - The commission will vote on this item on May 20, 2021. Item 6: Text Amendment – Dance Studio and Parcel Delivery Service - Staff requested to add “dance studio” as a permitted use in CDF, CG, and CH districts, and “parcel delivery service” as a permitted use in CG and CN districts. Staff recommended approval, noting the uses are benign and already allowed in comparable districts. No public comments were made. - The commission will vote on this item on May 20, 2021. Item 7: Adoption of Title 9 to Comply with NCGS 160D - Staff presented a required update to the City Code to comply with North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 160D, which consolidates and modernizes planning and zoning procedures. Key changes include new conflict-of-interest rules, updated vested rights timelines, and revised rules of procedure for the commission. The ordinance must be adopted by July 1, 2021. No public comments were made. - The commission will vote on this item on May 20, 2021. Key Outcomes - Immediate approvals: Approval of April 20 and 27, 2021 minutes (unanimous); Withdrawal of Item 3 (Shared Risk Holdings) (unanimous). - Deferred decisions: All other items (Items 2, 4, 5, 6, 7) will be discussed and voted upon at the reconvened meeting on Thursday, May 20, 2021, at 6:00 PM via Zoom. - The Chair asked members to consider two topics for discussion on May 20: (1) formalizing the current public comment time limits (5 minutes for first speaker, 3 minutes for subsequent, 30-minute total per side) and (2) a potential return to in-person meetings.
The Greenville Planning and Zoning Commission met on April 27, 2021, to continue deliberations from the April 20 recess. The commission voted on three items: two rezoning requests and a text amendment to city code regarding dormitory development. The meeting included discussion on the viability of ground-floor retail requirements in student housing projects. Consent Calendar - Item 2: Unanimously approved a request by Collis Moore Jr. to rezone 1.4854 acres at the northwestern corner of Diamond Drive and Sapphire Court from IU (Unoffensive Industry) to CH (Heavy Commercial). The motion to approve was made by Alan Brock, seconded by Chris West, and passed unanimously. - Item 3: Unanimously approved a request by MQ Construction LLC to rezone 2.385 acres between Dickinson Avenue and Southwest Greenville Boulevard, approximately 600 feet west of Williams Road, from RA20 (Residential Agricultural) to R6 (Residential High Density Multifamily). The motion to approve was made by Max Ray Joyner, seconded by John Collins, and passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Item 7: A request by Michael Birch, Longleaf Law Partners, to amend Title IX, Chapter 4, Article E, Section 9-4-86 of the city code, specifically deleting the requirement that dormitory developments in the CDFUC district include at least 10,000 square feet of non-storage floor area used for retail sales or other non-residential uses. Staff (Shantae Gooby) provided background on the rule's origin, noting it was intended to activate ground floors and support the Horizons Plan's walkable community vision. Commissioners discussed concerns about vacant retail spaces in existing projects (e.g., Jolly Roger and other student housing), the impact of COVID-19 on leasing, and whether a compromise (e.g., reducing the square footage requirement) was possible. Staff indicated openness to further discussion, but the applicant requested a vote that evening due to the project's timeline. Commissioner Michael Overton expressed support for the city's intent but noted practical leasing challenges. Commissioner Kevin Faison highlighted that many ground-floor spaces were empty even before the pandemic. Commissioner Hat Maxwell argued the requirement was a reasonable compromise and that the pandemic had suppressed leasing. Commissioner Brad Goose supported maintaining the rule to foster mixed-use development. Commissioner Alan Brock questioned whether retail challenges were broader market cycles. Commissioner Alan Thomas emphasized the importance of building retail space for future walkability. Commissioner Max Ray Joyner noted the struggling shopping center near the Jolly Roger site. Key Outcomes - Item 7: Commissioner Hat Maxwell made a motion to deny the proposed amendment, finding it inconsistent with the comprehensive plan and adopting the staff report. The motion was seconded by Alan Brock and passed with a vote of 6-2. Voting in favor of denial (i.e., against the amendment) were: Michael Overton, Pat Maxwell, John Collins, Alan Brock, Chris West, and Brad Goose. Voting against denial (i.e., in favor of the amendment) were: Max Ray Joyner and Kevin Faison. The commission thereby recommended that the 10,000 square foot non-residential space requirement remain in place for dormitory developments in the CDFUC district. - The meeting adjourned after the vote.