On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Summer Wilkes, Director of Planning and Economic Development, will present an overview of the proposed Zoning Ordinance to the Town Council. This significant discussion follows a series of recommendations from the Planning Commission, which voted to approve changes to the zoning ordinance on July 31, 2024, before forwarding it to the Council for further review, public hearing, and final vote.
The proposed changes are designed to shape the future of Purcellville’s landscape and community development, and Ms. Wilkes is expected to highlight key areas where the Planning staff diverges from the Commission’s recommendations. This could spark important conversations among residents about how their town will evolve in the coming years.
Among the topics on the table for discussion are several critical zoning classifications:
– R-3 – Duplex Zoning: The Planning Commission has recommended the removal of this zoning category, raising concerns that eliminating it may limit future housing opportunities in an area already facing housing challenges.
– PDH Zoning – Planned Development Housing: Staff suggests retaining a similar category within the ordinance to encourage creative developments, such as the innovative Courts of St. Francis, which could enhance the community’s character.
– Cluster Subdivisions: Proposed “grandfathered zoning” for existing developments is recommended to remain in the ordinance, allowing for greater flexibility in community design and preserving the unique aesthetics of Purcellville.
– Historic Property Overlay District: One of the most contentious issues is the proposed Historic Property Overlay District. The proposed ordinance would require Town approval to demolish an historically contributing home.
In March 2022, the Town Council denied the Planning Commission’s recommendation to add this district due to public concerns. Many residents argued that some homes within the proposed district did not qualify as ‘historic,’ while others that were historically significant were excluded.
Additionally, citizens raised alarms about the potential for expanding district guidelines to include all exterior modifications, which could impose restrictions on property owners. Former Planning Directors pointed out that the proposed ordinance failed to adequately protect historically contributing features of homes. To protect contributing historic features of a home you need to implement exterior reviews and approvals. Future expansion of the ordinance was a concern to a majority of the citizens.
Given the complexities surrounding these issues, the Planning staff is advocating for additional time to conduct thorough mapping of historic properties and to engage in citizen outreach, ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard.
With over 1,000 letters mailed to property owners affected by the proposed changes during the Planning Commission’s public hearing, it is clear that the community is invested in the outcome. The upcoming Zoning Ordinance Public Hearing, scheduled for March 11, 2025, will be a crucial opportunity for citizens to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the future of their town.
As Purcellville navigates these significant zoning changes, residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in the decision-making process that will shape the community for generations to come. The outcome of these discussions not only impacts the town’s development but also reflects the values and priorities of its citizens. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this important conversation!
Here’s how you can participate: Attend or listen to the staff overview at the February 25th Council meeting; meet or write to staff if you do not fully understand mailings you may receive of proposed changes: speak at the Public Hearing with your approval or concerns regarding the proposed ordinance.
