News-Record.com

As a former Greensboro City Council member and someone who was involved in a large, controversial rezoning, I was stunned when I heard about something called a protest petition. I was taken aback that such a provision existed and that Greensboro is the only city in North Carolina that is exempt from this legislation. I think that we should have the same power as any other North Carolina city dweller, and I have heard no reasonable justification as to why this right was taken away from us.

The protest petition will not eliminate controversial rezonings. But, the mere existence of the protest petition will motivate the rezoning applicant to engage in meaningful dialogue and to put forth the highest-quality proposal. It will result in improved development and development that is in greater harmony with the surrounding area. This will be especially important as we see more infill development.

To those who say that it will impede growth, I say look to Charlotte and Raleigh. It is obvious to anyone that the protest petition has not curtailed their growth and development.

It is a question of fairness, and I hope that the City Council will restore our voice.

Nancy Vaughan
Greensboro