The rezoning request for the Albert Land property, unanimously approved by the appointed Planning Commission, was turned down by Christiansburg Town Council.
By a motion from Councilman Mike Barber, seconded by Henry Showalter, the matter was put to rest (possibly for at least one year, if not until additional access roads into the proposed subdivision are finalized).
Councilmen Jim Vanhoozier and Bradford Stipes "recused" themselves from this vote, following questions about Conflict of Interest laws. On advice of the town's attorney, they each informed those present at this meeting there was no conflict -- however, they would not cast votes on the matter in order to preserve public trust.
Both councilmen are members of a church which owns property that may, in the future, provide an additional access point into this development from Peppers Ferry Road (Route 114). In the spirit of full disclosure, both men read prepared statements.
Both councilmen had served as appointees to the town's Planning Commission prior to being elected to council. Vanhoozier serves as a Deacon and on his church's Finance Committee. Stipes had donated pro bono engineering services, while also facilitating meetings between his church, the Route 114 construction project contractor and VDOT. Those meetings effected a mutually beneficial outcome for all parties, exchanging something for something. Both also currently serve as the Street Committee for council.
After reading the Planning Commission's recommendations to council for three rezoning requests, the Mayor proceeded with the Citizens Hearing portion of the meeting. He informed those present that the Public Hearing regarding the rezonings had been held previously, so comments relative to any of the rezonings were not allowed.
One New River Village resident stated she had unanswered questions: Would these be allowed? No. That ended the Citizens Hearing, as there were no speakers present to comment on other matters. The four remaining council members cast votes in favor of denying the rezoning for the Albert Land. The other two rezoning requests were approved by all six council members.