>>Roanoke Council Votes to Approve Controversial Zoning Changes
(Roanoke, VA) -- The Roanoke City Council approved on some controversial zoning changes at public hearing this week. Rebecca Hughes reports.Preview: Voicer Script:
Council members voted 6-1 to approve minor changes to disputed zoning amendments that allow for greater housing density in residential districts. The amendments, which reduce the minimum width of townhouses and remove stipulations on garages and parking, aim to address the city's housing scarcity issue. The changes were approved following a public hearing where residents expressed mixed opinions on the issue. Some residents raised concerns about the long-term effects of the amendments on affordable housing, while council members emphasized the need to end segregation in zoning practices. The lawsuit against the city by a group of homeowners remains unresolved, with the council's next steps uncertain.