Salem City Council approves HopeTree property rezoning

Salem, Virginia – Salem City Council has granted the HopeTree Property a rezoning after months of deliberation.

“I’ve heard from people all over the city providing a variety of input,” said Mayor Renee Turk.

More than 130 years ago, HopeTree began as an orphanage, caring for over 450 children. However, as the world has changed, so has its goal.

Rezoning of the HopeTree Family Services property has been approved by a vote of 3 to 2. The rezoning was a source of concern for many, and Major Turk paused to address them.

“Some of the concerns of Hope Tree we have heard you we know what your concerns are traffic and safety, commercial development, green space, and walking trails,” said Mayor Turk.

The development plans, according to Mayor Turk, are an attempt to satisfy the concerns of the neighborhoods, even if many people are still against the rezoning.

“There have been a lot of changes and discussion and restriction to what the initial development was proposed initial proposal,” said Mayor Turk.

Hunter Holliday, like his fellow council members, consulted with property neighbors and did his own research before reaching a judgment.

“We had 4% Yes 88% No. And 1% undecided as an elected official is my job to represent all of sales. But it’s also my job to represent the people that are going to be most greatly affected by what’s going to happen in the next few years,” said Holliday. He ultimately voted no.