The Town of Harrisburg Town Council adopted a resolution at the July 14 Town Council Meeting opposing North Carolina Senate Bill 205, a piece of legislation that would significantly weaken local regulation over land use, zoning, and development standards.
Roger Dale Carter Memorial Service Award
SB 205 was introduced under the pretense of a simple pool inspection measure but contains sweeping changes to local development standards that mirror provisions previously included in House Bill 756. The Town Council also passed a resolution opposing this legislation in April.
Key objections outlined in the resolution include:
- Limiting municipalities from enforcing zoning conditions based on voluntary agreements
- Prohibiting Towns from establishing safety-oriented parking and driveway standards
- Shifting the financial burden of road infrastructure from developers to taxpayers
- Preventing elected officials from making key decisions about developments, such as subdivisions.
- Reducing the time for reviewing development and rezoning applications
- Requiring the state to accept performance guarantees and allow homes to be occupied even if subdivision streets are incomplete
“We’re urging lawmakers to reject SB 205 and any future legislation that threatens to undermine local autonomy and strip away the public engagement process,” said Mayor Jennifer Teague. “This resolution reflects the Town Council’s firm commitment to preserving local control and supporting thoughtful, responsible growth that reflects the values of the Town of Harrisburg. When decisions are taken out of local hands, it weakens our ability to protect the character, safety, and sustainability of the community.”
This resolution was sent to North Carolina legislators and municipalities to urge broad opposition and collaboration. The Town of Harrisburg also encourages all residents to act by contacting their local representative and senators listed below.
Local North Carolina State Senators:
- Todd Johnson
(919) 733-7659
Todd.Johnson@ncleg.gov - Christopher Measmer
(919) 733-7223
Chris.Measmer@ncleg.gov
Local North Carolina House Representatives:
- Brian Echevarria
919-733-5861
Brian.Echevarria@ncleg.gov - Jonathan Almond
919-715-8361
Jonathan.Almond@ncleg.gov - Grant Campbell, MD
919-715-2009
Grant.Campbell@ncleg.gov
For more information, please visit the Town’s website at HarrisburgNC.gov.
