Pierce County approves rezoning for Ware Street duplexes despite neighborhood opposition

The Pierce County Board of Commissioners voted March 5 to rezone six parcels totaling 4.68 acres on Ware Street and Myles Farm Road from Agriculture/Forestry to Multi-Family to allow construction of seven duplexes (14 units).

At a public hearing earlier in the meeting, residents urged the board to reject the change. "I don’t want this due to traffic, population, pollution, noise, taxes, and the taking away of crops," said Jacqueline Wallace of 5270 Myles Farm Road, who submitted a petition she said shows community opposition. Neighbors also warned the development could harm bee pollination and farm operations and bring increased traffic onto narrow roads.

Attorney Dan Bennett, speaking on behalf of Dr. Brent Waters, urged approval, saying the development would add "more affordable housing" in an area with housing needs. Clay Thomas of Crossway Realty said the duplexes would help provide short-term housing for traveling nurses and doctors and "help the community and the hospital." Commissioner David Lowman asked for specifics; Attorney Bennett said plans call for seven duplexes (14 units) and that a private driveway from Ware Street could likely be used to reduce traffic on Myles Farm Road.

The commissioners approved the rezoning on a motion by Commissioner Harold Rozier, seconded by Commissioner David Lowman; the minutes state "the motion carried" but do not record individual votes. The board held a separate public hearing earlier in the meeting where opponents and proponents gave testimony before the regular meeting action.

The rezoned parcels are listed in the minutes as #034C-034, #034C-035, #034C-033, #034C-032, #034C-031 and #034C-029, totaling 4.68 acres. The minutes do not record conditions, required site plan review, timeline for building permits, or any mitigation measures beyond the discussion of a possible private drive off Ware Street.

The board’s approval clears the way for the property owner to pursue permitting and site development. The minutes include no recorded vote tally or stated appeal deadline.