Controversial zoning amendment passes in Roanoke

Roanoke, Virginia – The Roanoke City Council has decided to change its zoning policy following hours of discussion and public participation.

A greater number of inexpensive multi-family homes will be possible under the revised concept.

Following an outpouring of public opinion, the result was 5-2.

The amendment’s opponents raised issues with parking, among other things.

Opponents of the amendment, however, applauded it for being a larger city’s response to the demand for affordable housing.

“The neighborhoods become unattractive for people to put their life savings, their biggest investments into that neighborhood – and being told you have no say in what happens next to you,” resident Dr. Anthony Stavola said.

“For far too long these laws have created barriers for many citizens of the Roanoke Valley to secure and maintain affordable housing. These ordinances zone people and their economic condition as opposed to land and property use,” Founder of The Least of These Ministries Dawn Sandoval.

This modification represents the second stage of the city’s zoning reforms.