City of Staunton Planning Commission Meeting, October 15, 2026

The City of Staunton Planning Commission met on October 15, 2026, and considered several land-use and zoning matters; no procurement activity, contract awards, or spending decisions were identified. The commission unanimously recommended that City Council approve rezoning approximately 2.269 acres at 2330 Morris Mill Road from industrial zoning to R-3 medium-density residential for a proposed 24-unit apartment development. Discussion covered traffic, site access and future development of the remaining parcel, utilities, building height, neighborhood impacts, and the comprehensive plan. Residents raised concerns about traffic safety, infrastructure, and future access, while staff said a site plan would address technical requirements; the recommendation is not a final approval by Council.

The commission also unanimously recommended zoning text amendments to allow private day nurseries and kindergartens by right in business and mixed-use districts, and to permit manufactured homes in districts where site-built single-family homes are allowed, consistent with Virginia law. Staff will advertise a public hearing on an amendment allowing affordable housing on qualifying religious-organization and nonprofit properties under state legislation; it is scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027, and expire January 1, 2031. These recommendations and the affordable-housing amendment are regulatory and land-use matters, not purchasing actions.