The Board of Commissioners in Pittsboro, North Carolina, focused on the development of the South Village Small Area Plan during their regular meeting on September 8, 2025. Assistant Planning Director Theresa Thompson presented a detailed timeline of the Chatham Park project, which began with its rezoning in 2015. The discussion highlighted the importance of the Small Area Plan in providing specific guidance for development within the expansive 5,000-acre South Village.

Thompson explained that the Small Area Plan aims to reflect the anticipated needs and services for the area, offering more detailed information than the broader master plan approved in 2015. The North Village Small Area Plan, which encompasses 2,000 acres, was previously approved in 2021, setting a precedent for the current discussions regarding the South Village.

The commissioners engaged in a robust dialogue about the implications of the Small Area Plan, particularly regarding its conceptual nature. They emphasized the need for flexibility in planning, allowing for adjustments based on future community needs and infrastructure requirements. The board expressed concerns about the potential for bundling multiple sections of the South Village into a single plan, which could complicate the review process.

Commissioner discussions also touched on the necessity of public input, with Thompson noting that feedback has been collected over several months. The board is committed to ensuring that community voices are heard before any decisions are made.

As the meeting concluded, the significance of the Small Area Plan was underscored, with the board recognizing its role in shaping the future of Chatham Park. The next steps involve further refining the plan and preparing it for review by the planning board, with the goal of fostering a cohesive and well-planned community.