Burgaw Board of Commissioners denies approval for 487-home development

BURGAW, NC (WWAY) — On Tuesday, the Burgaw Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to deny developer D.R. Horton’s rezoning request for a 487-home development off NC Hwy 53 W. 

At the meeting D.R. Horton defended the development, saying they took input from a previous planning board meeting into account.   

“We increased our open space significantly. It went to 103 acres from about 89 acres. We added, agreed to the 50 foot buffer along NC Highway 53,” a D. R. Horton representative said.

But residents were not convinced. Burgaw resident Rochelle Whiteside began a community group against what she calls “predatory development.” She said growth isn’t always a bad thing, but that the proposed development ignored the wishes of residents.  

“We just want to take care of our special place in this world, and we’re not against growth, let that be known entirely. Growth that’s planned, and thoughtful and considerate is good growth,” Whiteside said.

At the meeting one resident—Burgaw Lawyer Robert Kenan—also challenged the legality of the rezoning request, saying it would violate the board’s own legislative policies.  

“Based on the facts that are here before you, the law that I presented to you, you have all the reason to terminate it, to eliminate it, not to approve,” Kenan said. 

Burgaw Mayor Olivia Dawson provided the following statement to WWAY on the vote:  

“The town of Burgaw does understand the need for growth but it is not the board’s desire to allow the wrong type or too much growth. It is our desire to improve, maintain, and allow growth that keeps consistent with our town and current land use plan.”

WWAY reached out to D. R. Horton for comment but we have not heard back as of Wednesday evening.