During a recent city council meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to proposed zoning amendments, citing concerns over their potential negative impact on housing affordability and neighborhood integrity. Candidate Nick Hagan urged council members to reject the amendments, arguing they could exacerbate historical issues such as redlining and segregation. He emphasized the need for the council to listen to grassroots organizations that have expressed their concerns, suggesting that the amendments could lead to increased housing prices and displacement of economically disadvantaged residents.

David Harrison presented data indicating that similar upzoning efforts in other localities resulted in only a marginal increase in housing supply without effectively lowering costs or increasing affordable housing availability. He referenced a recent statement from a Roanoke County official criticizing the placement of townhomes and apartments in areas primarily composed of single-family homes, suggesting a disconnect between zoning decisions and community needs.

Harrison also highlighted the importance of including various stakeholders, such as the school system and local nonprofits, in the planning process, arguing that the planning department should not dominate discussions. He called for a reevaluation of previously adopted zoning amendments, advocating for a more collaborative approach to urban development that prioritizes community input and addresses issues like urban blight and crime.

As the meeting progressed, other community members echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for thoughtful consideration of the proposed changes and their implications for the city's future. The council's decision on the amendments remains pending, with many residents closely monitoring the outcome.