During a recent Cary Town Council meeting, community members voiced their opinions on a proposed rezoning of a vacant lot, emphasizing the need for residential development in an area currently designated for commercial use. David Camp, a long-time resident and former town employee, argued that the site is not commercially viable and urged the council to consider rezoning it for residential purposes. He highlighted the challenges of the existing zoning regulations, which he believes do not accommodate the dimensions of the infill lots in the area.

Camp expressed concern over the potential for the lot to remain vacant and accumulate debris, similar to other abandoned properties nearby. He advocated for the development of homes to enhance the neighborhood's appeal and connectivity, referencing the importance of sidewalks and greenway access. His comments were supported by the lack of opposition from local residents, who participated in a neighborhood meeting prior to the council session.

George Bailey, another speaker, echoed Camp's sentiments, sharing his long-standing connection to the property and his desire to see it developed into residential homes. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the land development ordinance (LDO) but expressed optimism about the potential for creating attractive housing options.

Council members engaged in a discussion about the appropriateness of the current zoning, with some expressing support for the proposed residential use. Questions were raised regarding environmental considerations, such as stream buffers and the need for future infrastructure improvements, including wider sidewalks to accommodate increased foot traffic.

The council recognized the significance of the public hearing, noting that it provided valuable insights into community needs and preferences. While some members remained cautious about the implications of rezoning, the overall sentiment leaned towards supporting the residential development proposal, reflecting a broader trend in Cary's approach to infill development as the town nears full build-out. The council plans to further evaluate the proposal, considering both community input and regulatory requirements before making a final decision.