New Bern Planning & Zoning Meeting July 17, 2026

The City of New Bern Planning & Zoning meeting held on July 17, 2026, focused primarily on several zoning map amendment requests and related land use discussions. Key procurement-related topics included a rezoning request for 2011 Ellington Street from residential R6S to commercial C5 to accommodate a sorority's use, with board members debating the appropriateness of commercial zoning in a predominantly residential area. Another significant item was the rezoning of properties near the future NC Highway 43 extension from agricultural to commercial C3, with discussions about anticipated development and infrastructure plans. Additional rezoning proposals included a small parcel adjacent to a Habitat store from C5A to C4 to facilitate a housing authority project, and other parcels transitioning from mixed residential and commercial zoning to solely commercial districts to resolve split zoning issues. The board took votes recommending approval of several zoning amendments, emphasizing consistency with land use plans and public interest. Discussions also touched on parking requirements, buffer zones, and the potential impacts of zoning changes on neighborhoods. The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing zoning ordinance text amendments and land use plan updates, highlighting challenges due to state downzoning laws and the need for future comprehensive planning. No direct contract awards or procurement actions were reported, but the zoning decisions could influence future development and related procurement opportunities in New Bern.