Statesville City Council Denies Rezoning Request for 70-Home Development

The Statesville City Council voted unanimously Monday to deny a request to rezone approximately 28 acres for a proposed 70-unit single-family housing development.

City staff said the request involved property on Japul Road near Beauty Street, where developers sought to change zoning from R-10 to R-8. The change would have reduced minimum lot sizes from 8,000 square feet to 6,000 square feet, allowing for higher density.

During the meeting, council members expressed significant concerns about the condition of Japul Road, which is currently privately maintained. Officials said the road’s current state would not support the increased traffic generated by the proposed development.

Residents also voiced concerns about traffic impacts. Marie Martin and Jim Dobson told council members that adding 70 homes would worsen congestion, particularly for drivers attempting to turn onto East Broad Street from Safriet Road during peak hours.

Councilman Jones made the motion to deny the rezoning request, citing road conditions as the primary issue. The motion passed unanimously.

Despite the denial, city officials indicated the developer could revisit the proposal in the future if a plan is presented to address roadway improvements.