August 17, 2026: Work Session – Unified Development Ordinance Discussion

The Johnston County Government held a work session on August 17, 2026, focused on discussing updates to the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Key procurement-related topics included land use density calculations, with debate over gross versus net acreage methods and their legal implications under recent downzoning legislation. The board considered maintaining current minimum lot sizes (30,000 to 40,000 square feet) and discussed clustering incentives to balance development density and rural character preservation. They also deliberated on buffers between agricultural and residential areas, with a proposed 75-foot buffer including natural vegetation and stormwater management, aiming to protect farming operations while accommodating development. The session addressed regulatory provisions for electric and barbed wire fences in major subdivisions, with consensus to remove restrictions. Additionally, the board reviewed subdivision review processes, weighing administrative versus quasi-judicial approaches, public input opportunities, and the potential for standards addressing infrastructure capacity (water, sewer, schools). Legislative updates affecting accessory dwelling units and nonconforming uses were noted. The board agreed to proceed with revisions for public review ahead of a September 9 community drop-in session and a November public hearing. No direct contract awards or vendor selections were discussed, but policy decisions on land use and development standards could influence future procurement and development activities.