Greensboro City Council Approves West Friendly Avenue NCO After Intense Debate
After more than a year of hard work and hundreds of volunteer hours from the West Friendly Avenue community, the Greensboro City Council has officially approved the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NCO) for the area.
Last night’s meeting saw a spirited debate, with three City Council members—Hugh Holston, Zack Matheny, and Goldie Wells—voicing strong opposition. Zack Matheny led the opposition, expressing before the meeting that he believed the NCO was unnecessary, a sentiment echoed by Hugh Holston. Goldie Wells also voiced concerns, stating during the session that the NCO would slow future development and maintain the status quo for too long.
However, the NCO received strong support from Council members Nancy Hoffmann, Tammi Thurm, and Mayor Nancy Vaughan. They praised the neighborhood’s exceptional involvement and highlighted how the community had effectively utilized the city’s tools to design and implement the NCO. In a surprising move, Council member Sharon Hightower, who had remained quiet throughout the discussion, offered her full support for the NCO, commending the community for their efforts.
This vote marks a significant victory for West Friendly Avenue. The NCO will guide future development while preserving the neighborhood’s charm and character.
After a long discussion and debate, the Greensboro City Council voted 6-3 in favor of the West Friendly Avenue NCO! This is a huge win for our community, as it ensures that future development in the area will maintain the charm and character we’ve worked so hard to protect.
The NCO includes developer guidelines, such as building setbacks, height limits, and tree canopy preservation. This means we can grow responsibly while maintaining the unique feel of our neighborhood. We’re proud to be only the second NCO in Greensboro, following the West Ridge Road Community. A big thank you to everyone who came together and rallied for this important cause!
The entire one-hour meeting can be viewed on YouTube below. There, you can witness firsthand the lively debate and exceptional presentation delivered by your dedicated community volunteers: Nikki Kohut, Andrew Leroux, John Drinkard, and Jenny Kaiser. Their passionate and articulate representation of the community’s interests was outstanding. They truly showcased the hard work and commitment behind this effort, speaking on behalf of us to ensure our neighborhood’s voice was heard loud and clear.
Fox 8 News News of the Victory
After a long discussion and debate, the Greensboro City Council voted 6-3 in favor of the West Friendly Avenue NCO! This is a huge win for our community, as it ensures that future development in the area will maintain the charm and character we’ve worked so hard to protect. The NCO includes developer guidelines, such as building setbacks, height limits, and tree canopy preservation. This means we can grow responsibly while maintaining our neighborhood’s unique feel. We’re proud to be only the second NCO in Greensboro, following the West Ridge Road Community. A big thank you to everyone who came together and rallied for this important cause!
Watch the entire City Council Meeting
A Community Effort: Gratitude to the Volunteers Who Made It Possible
This victory would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the West Friendly Avenue community. Hundreds of volunteer hours were dedicated to research, planning, and engaging with neighbors to ensure that the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NCO) reflected the values of the entire community. We owe a huge thank you to all the residents who attended meetings, signed petitions, spread awareness, and advocated for the preservation of our neighborhood. Your dedication and commitment have made this achievement possible, and your work will help protect the charm and character of West Friendly Avenue for generations to come.
As a proud member of this incredible group of new friends, I strongly encourage you to take a moment to personally email and thank all of the volunteers who worked tirelessly on behalf of our neighborhood: Nikki Kohut, Andrew, John Drinkard, Jenny Kaiser, and so many others who have given their time and energy to make this possible. Their dedication and passion have made a lasting impact, and a heartfelt thank-you can go a long way in showing our appreciation. Let’s come together as a community and let them know how much their efforts mean to all of us!
Warm regards,
Nicky Smith
The Friends of Friendly Committee
Jenny Kaiser – jennyrkaiser@mac.com
John Drinkard – john.drinkard@cjmw.com
Nikki Kohut – nikkijrn@gmail.com
Andy Aronson – aronsona4@gmail.com
Steve Freyaldenhoven – sfrey220@gmail.com
Art Close – acclose@aol.com
Candida Yoshikai – cwyin2012@gmail.com
Buddy Milks – buddymilks@gmail.com
Jeannie Hager – jeanniebhager@gmail.com
Nicky Smith – nickysmith@icloud.com
City Council Meeting – Must Attend – October 15, 5:30 PM
Now is a critical time to protect our neighborhood’s future! With 87% of West Friendly Avenue homeowners voicing strong support for the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NCO), we must send a clear and unified message to the Greensboro City Council. If we don’t act now, our neighborhood’s charm, history, and character risk being lost to overdevelopment.
The City Council’s vote is fast approaching, and we cannot afford to be silent. This is the moment when your voice counts more than ever. We need everyone to take action—call, write, and email the City Council members, urging them to vote yes on the NCO. Let them know that our community is united and the overwhelming majority of residents are committed to preserving the neighborhood that has been our home for over 100 years. Don’t wait — your involvement today can shape the future of our neighborhood for generations to come. Act now to protect what makes our community special!
When contacting the Greensboro City Council members, introduce yourself, include your address, and explain why the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NCO) is important to you and your family. Share your connection to the neighborhood, and emphasize how much this means. Be professional in your message and clearly state the facts: our community has worked hard for over a year to develop this NCO, representing the collective effort to protect the character of our neighborhood. Your voice is powerful—let them know why this matters to you!
Interact with Council Members
You can communicate with each of the Greensboro City Council Members individually:
Nancy Vaughn (Mayor)
E-MAIL: nancy.vaughn@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 373-2396 (office phone)
Telephone: (336) 339-3607 (cell phone)
Yvonne J Johnson (Mayor Pro Tem)
E-MAIL: yvonne.johnson@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 255-3060 (cell phone)
Marikay Abuzuaiter (At Large)
E-MAIL: marikay.abuzuaiter@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 601-0286 (cell phone)
Hugh Holston (At Large)
E-MAIL: hugh.holston@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 500-7331 (cell phone)
Sharon Hightower (District 1)
E-MAIL: sharon.hightower@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 317-4953 (cell phone)
Goldie F Wells (District 2)
E-MAIL: goldie.wells@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 317-4590 (cell phone)
Zack Matheny (District 3)
E-MAIL: zack.matheny@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 908-2821 (cell phone)
Nancy Hoffmann (District 4)
E-MAIL: nancy.hoffmann@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 255-1306 (cell phone)
Tammi Thurm (District 5)
E-MAIL: tammi.thurm@greensboro-nc.gov
Telephone: (336) 601-0435 (cell phone)
Greensboro City Council
If an email does not work, please use this webpage to contact each Greensboro City Council Member: https://www.greensboro-nc.gov/government/city-council/e-mail-city-council
City Council Members
Top Row:
Hugh Holston – At Large
Dr. Goldie Wells – District 2
Mayor Nancy Vaughan
Tammi Thurm – District 5
Zack Matheny – District 3
Front Row:
Yvonne Johnson – Mayor Pro Tem
Nancy Hoffmann – District 4
Marikay Abuzuaiter – At Large
Sharon Hightower – District 1
Community Call to Action: Support Our Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NCO)
Greensboro City Council approval is the next crucial step for our Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NCO). We need your attendance at the October 15th meeting to support this NCO. While we’ve spent a year developing this plan to preserve our neighborhood’s unique charm, we’re not guaranteed a unanimous vote from the Greensboro City Council. Your presence at this Tuesday evening’s City Council meeting is vital to demonstrate our community’s strong support for this initiative.
We need your financial support.
Small donations will help us cover the costs of signs, social media outreach, email announcements, and other efforts to raise awareness. Will you consider making a small contribution? Donations can be made easily via our GoFundMe page or by mailing a check to Friends of Friendly, PO Box 10142, Greensboro, NC 27404.
We encourage everyone living directly on West Friendly Avenue to display the new support signs. These signs symbolize our commitment to protecting a neighborhood that has been home to families for over 100 years.
Let’s unite to ensure the continued protection and preservation of our neighborhood. Together, we can make a difference!
🚨 Neighborhood Conservation Overlay gets Approved
At a recent Greensboro Planning & Zoning Commission meeting, tensions flared over the proposed Neighborhood Conservation Overlay (NCO) for the West Friendly Avenue area. The NCO, presented by Long Range Planning Manager Russ Clegg, aims to preserve the neighborhood’s character by guiding new development through specific dimensional standards like setbacks, building heights, and tree conservation. The plan received strong community backing, with over 80% of residents supporting the petition.
While Planning Manager Mike Kirkman clarified concerns about tree preservation rules—stating they only apply to new construction—committee member Mary Skenes raised an unwarranted question about homeowners’ rights to manage existing trees, which had already been addressed.
Committee member Zac Engle offered robust support for the NCO, pointing to the overwhelming resident consensus as a clear mandate to protect the neighborhood’s charm. However, Chairwoman Sandra O’Connor shocked many by opposing the plan, arguing that it conflicted with the city’s 2040 growth plan.
Despite O’Connor’s objections, the commission voted to recommend the NCO to the City Council, where the debate will continue in October.
Read more at https://preservefriendlyavenue.com/nco-gets-greenlight-from-zoning-commission/
New Site Plan Proposed By Glenn Drew
Here is the site plan from Glen Drew’s proposed new single-family home development on Hutchinson Court. Mr. Drew’s team has redesigned the plans and submitted them to the planning department for approval, using the current allowed zoning requirements for R-3.
As you can see, his development will still include a bioretention cell on the front of Friendly Avenue, destroying all mature trees and hardwoods along the property. He has planned to build 10 single-family homes in this small lot! It is not in the best interest of our community and will look much like cluster homes in a historically larger neighborhood than single-family homes.
NOW is the time for commissioners to hear the neighborhood’s voices. We need this NCO now more than ever to preserve the integrity of the West Friendly Avenue neighborhood for future generations. See the draft of the West Friendly Avenue neighborhood conservation overlay below.
Please plan to attend the Zoning and Planning Commission meeting this Monday, September 16th, at 5:30 p.m., in support of the NCO. 300 W. Washington St., Greensboro, NC 27401. We need you now!
Download and read the City of Greensboro’s Neighborhood Conservation Overlay Plan at this LINK
Sincerely,
Your Preserve Friendly Avenue neighbors.
West Friendly Avenue Neighborhood Conservation Overlay District
Purpose and Intent
The purpose of the NCO is to preserve the characteristics of the existing residential neighborhood. These features, unique to Friendly Avenue Boulevard, are large lots, substantial setbacks, and significant tree coverage along the West Friendly Avenue corridor.
Preliminary Overview
Greensboro’s enabling ordinance for NCOs requires that a plan and development guidelines accompany any request to create an NCO. Contained within this plan will be a statement of purpose and intent, a description of the area boundary, relevant history, a physical description of the area, land use and zoning analysis, and a review of the West Friendly Avenue NCO planning process.
Non-Conformities
The standards in this NCO are based on the context established by the existing structures and neighborhood development patterns. As such, all structures existing inside the GKC NCO boundary at the time of the adoption of this plan shall be considered to be in conformance with the plan’s standards. Up to and including 100% of the pre-damage tax value, damaged structures can be rebuilt in their existing footprint. Structures existing at the time of the adoption of this plan may be expanded and altered as long as the expansion complies with the dimensional requirements of the Land Development Ordinance and this NCO plan.
Applicability
All properties within the West Friendly Avenue Neighborhood Conservation Overlay must adhere to the standards contained herein. Development, redevelopment, or infill projects will also be guided by other applicable land development and land use standards. The overlay standards take precedence if a conflict arises between the overlay and the underlying zoning.
West Friendly Avenue Neighborhood and the NCO Planning Process
The West Friendly Avenue neighborhood initiated a request to begin the Neighborhood Conservation Overlay on August 22, 2023, by submitting a feasibility application. This application was accompanied by a petition signed by 25% of the land area and parcels included within the proposed NCO. The first neighborhood meeting was held on January 11, 2024. Staff met with residents to discuss the NCO, including what it is and how it relates to zoning and possible future development. That initial meeting included some preliminary dimensional information supporting the application, such as average setbacks of the lots within the district.
A second neighborhood meeting was held on April 9, 2024. Participants worked to clarify draft standards, and consensus was reached on the items discussed, including front setbacks, side setbacks, maximum height, and tree protection standards. The discussion included consideration of the impact of the proposed changes, with a desire expressed by the group to incorporate flexibility in some of the standards to ensure a comfortable fit for all. Following this meeting, staff worked to prepare a draft of the plan that the residents could share as they worked to collect the necessary property owner signatures in support of the application
Location and Boundaries
The West Friendly Avenue Neighborhood Conservation Overlay consists of the lots fronting West Friendly Avenue between Holden Road and Westridge Road. The area is located in the Northwest section of Greensboro, about five miles outside the city center. The map below shows the properties included in the NCO.
If you own property or home identified in the map below, a Preserve Friendly Avenue Volunteer will be available to discuss the West Friendly Avenue Neighborhood Conservation Overlay and what you must do to protect our neighborhood.
🎉🌳 Victory for West Friendly Avenue Community! 🌳🎉
Exciting news, everyone! The proposal to introduce 22 new townhomes into our beloved West Friendly Avenue neighborhood has been successfully halted! This is a moment of celebration for all of us who cherish the unique character of our community.
As our neighbor Eric Estep aptly put it, “We’ve scored a major victory in what feels like the first round of a boxing match!” Our collective efforts have made a significant impact, with the Planning and Zoning Commission denying the re-zoning request from developer Glenn Drew, and the appeal window now closed.
But our journey doesn’t end here. We’re taking proactive steps to safeguard the future of our neighborhood by working towards a neighborhood conservation overlay. This will help ensure that any future developments will respect and fit within the standards that define the heart and soul of our area.
Let’s keep standing strong together to protect and preserve the essence of West Friendly Avenue!
The voice of our community triumphed in Monday night’s meeting with the Greensboro Planning and Zoning Commission.
It’s OFFICIAL! Glenn Drew did NOT file for an appeal regarding the rezoning decision. It looks like our neighborhood’s efforts have paid off for now! 🎉 Let’s stay vigilant and keep our community strong. Cheers to this victory! 🏡🌳
Keep posted at https://preservefriendlyavenue.com/ for future updates as we need to be prepared for the possibility of his return with new proposals. Your efforts and support have been invaluable so far, and they will be crucial in the times ahead. Let’s continue to stand together, stay informed, and be ready to take action to protect the unique character of our community. Your vigilance and involvement are what make our neighborhood a wonderful place to live. Thank you for everything you do, and let’s keep our community spirit strong!
News 2 Explains why Glenn Drew’s 22-unit townhome duplex failed to pass City Zoning
More than 250 Homeowners in the Friendly Avenue area came to listen to Glenn Drew’s desire to build a 22 rental townhome duplex on Friendly Avenue. The vote was NO by the Zoning Commissioners. The Zoning Commissioners had plenty of questions for Glenn Drew’s attorney. We were told Glenn Drew was not present at the Zoning Meeting because according to his legal counsel, he would be a distraction from the “real issues”. The community will continue to fight this battle to keep the neighborhood zoned as Residential R-3.
In a remarkable display of unity and determination, the residents of our cherished neighborhood recently came together to confront and challenge a development plan that threatened to upend the fabric of our community. At the heart of this struggle was Glenn Drew’s controversial proposal to build a 22-unit rental townhome duplex, a plan that sparked widespread opposition for its potential to disrupt the local charm and family-friendly atmosphere of our area. This story is not just about opposition; it’s about how a community rallied in unison for a common cause, leading to a significant victory at the Zoning Commission’s recent vote.
The Power of Community
From the onset, the proposal by Glenn Drew was met with immediate concern. Residents feared the loss of the neighborhood’s unique character and the introduction of elements that would drastically alter its landscape. What unfolded next was a testament to the power of community action. Neighbors joined forces, united by a shared commitment to preserving the essence of their neighborhood. Meetings were held, strategies formulated, and a collective voice emerged, stronger and more determined than ever.
Educating and Informing the Commission
A crucial aspect of the community’s effort was to ensure the Zoning Commissioners were thoroughly informed and aware of the residents’ concerns. Through careful planning, our community leaders prepared a compelling 10-minute presentation for the Zoning Commission, highlighting key points against the rezoning application. This presentation was more than just a speech; it was a heartfelt plea, a narrative woven from the concerns, hopes, and the very identity of the neighborhood.
The Zoning Commission’s Decision
On the day of the vote, the Zoning Commission, having been well-educated about the intricacies of the application and the community’s stance, cast their votes. In a decisive 9 to 1 outcome, the Commission voted against the rezoning application, aligning with the community’s plea. This outcome was not just a rejection of a development plan; it was an affirmation of the community’s right to preserve its character and a reflection of the Commission’s responsiveness to public concern.
Witnessing the Passion
The community’s journey and its ultimate victory are encapsulated in the passionate voices of our leaders during their presentation to the Commission. To truly understand the depth of the community’s commitment, one needs to listen to those ten minutes of powerful advocacy. The presentation is available for all to hear, serving as an inspiring reminder of what can be achieved when a community stands together.
Moving Forward
This victory is a significant milestone, but the journey doesn’t end here. It serves as a powerful example of the impact of collective action and the importance of staying vigilant and involved in the decisions that shape our neighborhoods. As we celebrate this win, let’s also remember the responsibility we bear to continue nurturing and protecting the places we call home.
Together, we have shown that when a community unites for a cause, it can protect and preserve what matters most. Let’s carry this spirit forward, for our neighborhood and for the generations to come.
🏡📣 Your Voice Matters: Join Local Leaders in Speaking to The Greensboro Planning and Zoning Commission
Our community has been at the forefront of a crucial conversation regarding the future of our beloved neighborhood. As we navigate through the challenges posed by the proposed rezoning plans, it’s heartening to see local community leaders stepping up and voicing their concerns to The Greensboro Planning and Zoning Commission.
Their messages, rich in insight and passion, reflect the deep commitment we all share to the well-being and preservation of our community. These leaders are not just speaking for themselves; they are echoing the collective voice of our community.
Your involvement can truly make a difference. By adding your voice to those of our local leaders, you help ensure that the decisions made by The Greensboro Planning and Zoning Commission are in the best interests of our community.
Let’s stand together for the neighborhood we love and cherish. Write to the Commission today! https://preservefriendlyavenue.com/act-now/
Andy Aronson‘s Powerful Email to the Greensboro Planning and Zoning Commission. Andy’s email is more than just words on a page; it’s a poignant reflection of our community’s sentiments and a well-reasoned argument against the rezoning plans. Drawing from his deep understanding of our city and its long-term goals, especially the Greensboro 2040 Growth Plan, he meticulously points out the discrepancies between these long-range plans and the current rezoning proposal. https://preservefriendlyavenue.com/zoning-commissioners-from-andy-aronson/
John F. Merrell, III, a lifelong Greensboro resident and retired City Planning Director with 35+ years of experience, has written an insightful letter to our Planning and Zoning Commission. John brings his vast national experience in city planning to our local context, offering a unique perspective on the current rezoning issues we’re facing. His letter is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our city. https://preservefriendlyavenue.com/zoning-commissioners-from-john-merrell/
David Pleasant‘s email to the Greensboro Planning and Zoning Commissions is a critical observation and a call for transparency and adherence to the city’s long-term plans. In his email, David points out a significant omission in the Planning Department’s report, which recommended approval of the controversial rezoning request on Friendly Avenue. Key Points from David’s Email (1) Omission of GSO 2040 Strategy (2) Strategy 1 of GSO 2040 and Inconsistency with Rezoning Request Read his email at https://preservefriendlyavenue.com/zoning-commissioners-from-david-pleasants/
SAY NO TO REZONING FRIENDLY
Our mission is to staunchly oppose the rezoning of Friendly Avenue, safeguarding our neighborhood’s unique charm and tranquility from multi-tenant intrusion. In the heart of Greensboro, where community values once blossomed, a menacing shadow looms. A new proposal, driven more by profit than by people, threatens to disrupt the delicate balance of our neighborhood. This isn’t merely a boundary dispute; it’s a battle for Greensboro’s soul. Every brick, every tree, every childhood memory anchored here cries out for us to stand firm, to protect the very essence of what makes our community home.
Friendly Avenue Rezoning Proposal Faces Fierce Backlash from Community
Developer’s Representatives Meet With Hostile Reception
In a dramatic turn of events, the proposed rezoning of Friendly Avenue has ignited a firestorm of opposition from the local community. During a tense meeting on Monday night, which saw a turnout of over 200 concerned residents, the atmosphere was charged with palpable anger and apprehension. Watch News 2 coverage here!
The No-ReZoning Committee and Neighbors are deeply infuriated by Glenn Drew’s blatant disregard for our community concerns!
Read more at 👉 The Battle To Preserve Friendly Avenue Continues
Glenn Drew Moves Forward with Another Plan
September 22, 2023: FOX 8 News has recently reported that Glenn Drew is undeterred in his ambitions. Despite facing substantial opposition from concerned neighbors, he is preparing for yet another attempt to rezone his 4-acre property on Friendly Avenue. Many in the community believe that this move is not in the best interest of the neighborhood. Residents have voiced concerns about the potential implications such a change could have on the character and quality of life in the area, emphasizing the need for development that aligns with the community’s values and vision. The growing resistance underscores a collective commitment to preserving the essence of what makes the neighborhood unique.
Glenn Drew Reconsiders Friendly Avenue’s Zoning Request
In a surprising twist, Glenn Drew, the landowner and potential developer behind the contentious rezoning proposal for Friendly Avenue, has decided to withdraw his request. This decision came amidst strong community opposition, as residents rallied together to preserve the charm and character of their beloved neighborhood. Friendly Avenue, known for its serene environment and single-family homes, became a hub of debate when Drew proposed transforming it into a multi-family dwelling zone. The tight-knit community, cherishing their peace and harmony, saw the rezoning as a direct threat to the area’s very essence. The Friends of Friendly Avenue Committee played a crucial role in rallying residents and voicing their concerns, leading to this significant moment. Their consistent efforts in community engagements, yard signage, and even social media campaigns appear to have struck a chord. While this withdrawal is a victory, the community remains vigilant, knowing that a modified request might be on the horizon. Still, for now, the residents of Friendly Avenue can take a sigh of relief, having safeguarded their neighborhood’s unique charm once again.
Preserving Our Community:
The Friends of Friendly Planning Committee was excited to learn on August 10th that Glenn Drew, the landowner, and his business CZS Development Company, LLC have withdrawn their application for rezoning his property from R-3 (Residential Single-family-3) to CD-RM-8 (Conditional District-Residential Multifamily-8). This is a great step but we’re NOT done! We know through the attorneys that he will be resubmitting a different and possibly modified ReZoning request in September or October. This will mean an October or November hearing in front of the Greensboro Planning and Zoning Commission and later in front of the City Council.
It’s crucial that we understand your top priorities as we prepare for the upcoming discussions. Please take a moment, just about 2 minutes, to fill out the survey below. Your insights will be shared with our attorney to inform our next steps.
To clarify, we are not the ones seeking negotiation with Glenn Drew and his legal team; instead, they are reaching out to us. They aim to gain our backing for the project, fully aware of the community’s sentiments about the unwarranted rezoning of our cherished neighborhood.
It’s vital for the committee and our attorney to understand your stance. For instance, does the community solely prefer single-family homes? How crucial is the issue of density to you? And what are your thoughts on buffer zones and setbacks? Your opinion matters greatly, and gathering this information will aid in advocating for a resolution that aligns with our neighborhood’s character.
🚨 Urgent Call To Action 🚨
Every sign, flyer, and ad plays a pivotal role in preserving our community from unwanted rezoning. Please consider donating to our General Fund. Let’s pool our resources and make our voices heard even louder!
Mail your contribution to:
Friends of Friendly
PO Box 10142
Greensboro, NC 27404,
Or instantly donate via our GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/friends-of-friendly. Together, we defend our homes and community! 🏡 #StopRezoning #ProtectFriendlyAve
Second Successful Meeting of Neighbors, August 6th
An overwhelming success at Westminster Presbyterian Church! Over 200 concerned neighbors united, demonstrating the strength and passion of our community. The gathering provided insightful updates from the committee and invaluable advice from our legal team. It’s clear that our neighborhood is engaged, informed, and ready to take collective action. People attending the gathering that spoke up at the meeting were very vocal that they will not settle for anything less than single-family and would prefer the land stay zoned R-3.
What’s This About and Why Should You Be Concerned?
The “Unacceptable” Proposal
The proposal consists of 22 units designed as 13 duplex two-story buildings. Glen Drew the owner of CZS Development Company, LLC is seeking a rezoning from R-3 (Residential Single-family-3) to CD-RM-8 (Conditional District-Residential Multifamily-8). The current zoning, R3, allows three single-family units per acre (Total acreage 4.4). The requested zoning of RM8 zoning would allow eight multi-family units per acre for a maximum of 36 total units that would clearly not be in the good character of the community that has been established for more than 70 years. The initial proposed rent per unit is $3,000/month and the renters would have very limited access to the road causing traffic issues in addition to being an unsightly eye sore to the neighbors and the already established community of single-family homes in the area. The proposed density leaves room only for a 12-foot minimum building setback from side and rear property lines The proposed multi-family density increase is not in context with the surrounding neighborhood. The current single-family home setback on West Friendly Ave is 100 feet or more.
Questions or Comments
If you have questions or comments, there is a special phone number where you can leave VOICE or TEXT messages.
CALL or TEXT (336) 222-6995
Record Turnout at the July 17th Meeting at Greensboro Zoning & Planning Commission
July 17th at 5:30 PM was the first of many meetings with the Greensboro Zoning and Planning Board. In the largest turnout in the Greensboro Zoning and Planning Commission history, more than 300 concerned homeowners in the Friendly Avenue area gathered in the room where there was standing room only against the builder Glenn Drew the sole owner of CZS Development LLC who sat quietly at the back of the room while his legal counsel asks for a continuance to next month. Glenn Drew did not speak at the meeting and knows the community is standing strongly against his rezoning request. See Glenn Drew’s reactions to the large crowd at https://preservefriendlyavenue.com/community-says-no-to-rezoning/