Why Charlotte’s Zoning Process Leaves Residents Scrambling for Answers
By Jack Beckett | Senior Writer, Charlotte Mercury
Charlotte’s skyline isn’t the only thing rising—so is frustration over how rezoning happens without residents knowing until it’s too late. Monday’s City Council meeting exposed a gaping hole in public engagement: Almost no one attends rezoning meetings, even when the projects reshape entire neighborhoods.
Who’s Showing Up? Hardly Anyone.
Take Petition 2024-142, a request to change zoning near North Tryon Street. Only one person attended the public meeting.
Petition 2024-147 on North Graham Street? Also, one attendee.
This isn’t unusual. It’s standard.
Councilmember Renee Johnson put the issue bluntly:
“We as the city could do more as well… If we could put a QR code on the signs, that would be so good in an effort toward transparency.”
Charlotte’s zoning signs give residents a case number and a website—no details, no context. The city assumes people will dig for answers. They don’t. That’s why Johnson is pushing for QR codes to link residents directly to key information.
Why This Matters: Decisions Are Being Made Without Input
Consider the Wilkes Asset Management rezoning (Petition 2024-137), which adds 145 multifamily units near Johnston Oehler Road. Traffic congestion was a top concern, yet how many people who will be affected even knew this was happening?
Councilmember LaWana Mayfield didn’t hold back:
“It can easily take 30 minutes, depending on the time of day, to get back towards Bellhaven… The challenge is whether you make a left or right at that light—it’s a two-lane road.”
Then there’s Petition 2024-073, a rezoning for a Zaxby’s on Ashley Road. The lot has been vacant for 25 years. Now, it will soon be a drive-through restaurant affecting local traffic and businesses. How many people attended the meeting? Three.
That’s how major land-use decisions get made in Charlotte.
A QR Code Won’t Solve Everything, But It’s a Start
The Council’s QR code proposal is a simple fix—but one that could make a real difference.
Councilmember Victoria Watlington pushed for better outreach, specifically mentioning the lack of engagement from neighborhoods like Camp Green and Ashley Park.
“I’d love to see another connection with Camp Green and Ashley Park Neighborhood Associations… I’d love to see an outcome.”
A QR code wouldn’t change everything overnight, but it would remove one big excuse: that residents didn’t know.
City Council Can’t Keep Waiting for Residents to Find Out Too Late
City Council can’t keep waiting for the public to magically show up. They need to change the process—starting with clearer notifications, direct communication, and yes, QR codes. Because if residents don’t know what’s happening, they’re already losing the fight.
About the Charlotte Mercury
Want to stay informed about Charlotte’s growth, politics, and business? Visit CLTMercury.com for in-depth coverage. You can always message us on X.com (formerly Twitter, or as we call it, Twix).
Fuel This Journalism with Great Coffee ☕
This article is brought to you by Summit Coffee, where every cup creates a moment of joy. Whether you’re at their flagship Davidson College café or grabbing a bag of their Basecamp Blend, you’re fueling community-driven, responsibly sourced coffee. They even host running races, live music, and community events. Don’t just drink coffee—experience it.
Find your nearest Summit Coffee: SummitCoffee.com/Cafes
Charlotte’s Premier Nostalgia Brand 👕
The Charlotte Mercury is powered by Glory Days Apparel—your go-to for vintage-inspired, wearable conversation pieces. Want to show off your love for the Queen City? Check out their store at 2202 Hawkins Street or shop online.
Contact:
📞 (980) 292-3214
📧 info@glorydaysapparel.com
🛒 Shop Now
Glory Days isn’t just a brand—it’s a memory on a t-shirt. Get yours today.
Final Thoughts from Jack Beckett ☕
This article was powered by three cups of Summit Coffee’s Basecamp Blend, a stubborn refusal to accept vague zoning notices, and the existential dread of knowing someone will still complain on Nextdoor that “they had no idea this was happening.”
For more reporting that pairs well with your morning brew, check out Charlotte Mercury—or message us on Twix
