In a recent meeting of the Randolph County Board of Commissioners, a significant discussion centered around a rezoning request from Gregory Bennett, who is seeking to overturn a previous denial by the Randolph County Planning Board. Bennett is requesting to rezone 5.51 acres of land located on Andrew Hunter Road in Franklinville from its current residential restricted and residential agriculture designations to a highway commercial district.

The Planning Board had previously denied this request unanimously during a hearing on June 4, 2023, following an earlier denial on January 10, 2023. Under North Carolina law, a property owner must wait one year before reapplying for a rezoning unless the new request is substantially different. Bennett has complied with this requirement, returning to the board after more than a year since his last application.

During the presentation, it was noted that the property is situated in a primary growth area, with some highway commercial zoning across the street. The rezoning would allow for a wide range of commercial uses, although Bennett did not specify any intended use for the property at this time. The board was informed that the area surrounding the property is predominantly residential, with some commercial development nearby.

Bennett, who has family ties to the land dating back to 1950, expressed his desire for the rezoning, emphasizing his family's long-standing connection to the property. The commissioners were invited to ask questions, and Bennett was present to address any concerns regarding the proposal.

The outcome of this hearing could have significant implications for the development landscape in Franklinville, as the decision will determine whether the property can transition from residential to commercial use, potentially impacting the local community and economy.