PETITION OF OAK GROVE AREA RESIDENTS

REGARDING PROPOSED REZONING Z26-03-01 FROM AGRICULTURAL TO ONE-ACRE

LOTS

To: Carroll County Board of Commissioners

and Carroll County Planning & Zoning Commission

We, the undersigned residents and property owners of the Oak Grove area of Carroll County,

respectfully express our opposition to the proposed rezoning of property from Agricultural

classification to one-acre residential lots.

Our community has long been characterized by Agricultural zoning, larger tracts of land, lower

housing density, and rural character. Many homeowners have invested in their properties with

the reasonable expectation that surrounding land uses would remain consistent with these

planning principles.

The proposed rezoning represents a fundamental shift in land use that raises several important

concerns for existing residents.

Precedent for Future Development

Rezoning Agricultural land to one-acre lots may set a precedent for additional subdivision

requests in surrounding Agricultural areas. Over time, incremental rezonings could significantly

alter the rural character and long-term land use pattern of the Oak Grove community.

Uncertainty Regarding Housing Type and Development Standards

Residents request clarification regarding what type of housing structures will be permitted under

the proposed zoning. Specifically, whether manufactured or mobile homes could be allowed on

these one-acre lots, and whether development standards such as minimum square footage or

site-built homes would be required to ensure compatibility with surrounding properties.

Given the presence of an existing manufactured housing park in the area, it is important that

any rezoning clearly define enforceable development standards to ensure compatibility with

neighboring properties and protect the long-term stability of the community.

Infrastructure Capacity and Burden of Proof

Before any rezoning is approved, residents believe the applicant should demonstrate through

credible studies that the development will not overburden existing infrastructure. This includes

traffic capacity, stormwater and drainage management, school capacity, utilities, and public

safety services.

The burden of proof should rest with the applicant to show that the proposed rezoning is

consistent with the Carroll County Comprehensive Plan, compatible with surrounding land uses,

and will not create undue strain on public resources.Traffic and Roadway Safety

Roads in the Oak Grove area are rural in nature with narrow lanes, limited shoulders, and no

sidewalks. These roads are regularly used by school buses and by residents who walk, run, and

ride bicycles for recreation and exercise. Increased residential development may significantly

increase daily traffic and create additional safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists who currently

share these roads.

Wildlife and Environmental Considerations

The Oak Grove area supports an active wildlife population, including deer and other animals

that frequently cross local roads. Increased traffic and development may disrupt wildlife

movement patterns and increase the risk of vehicle–wildlife collisions, which can create

dangerous driving conditions for residents.

Stormwater and Drainage Impacts

Subdivision development increases impervious surfaces such as rooftops and driveways, which

can alter natural drainage patterns. Residents are concerned about potential runoff, flooding,

and erosion impacts on neighboring properties and existing drainage systems.

Property Values and Community Stability

Property owners in the Oak Grove Agricultural district have invested in their homes and land

with the expectation of lower-density surroundings. Rezoning without clearly defined

development standards introduces uncertainty regarding future land use and housing types,

which may affect property values and the long-term stability of the community.

While we recognize that growth is a part of Carroll County’s future, we believe that growth

should occur in a manner that respects existing zoning intent, protects infrastructure capacity,

and preserves the character of established communities.

For these reasons, we respectfully request that the Carroll County Board of Commissioners and Planning & Zoning Commission deny the proposed rezoning.

Respectfully submitted by the residents and property owners of the Oak Grove community.