The Lynchburg Planning Commission met with a small group of stakeholders Wednesday to explore concerns about how the city regulates development among colleges and certain other institutions.
This was a preliminary fact-finding effort organized to assist planning commissioners as they consider whether current zoning regulations affecting institutions ought to be amended.
The system in place now requires private schools and other large institutions to obtain conditional-use permits for their campus plans. Such permits involve public hearings, a review by the planning commission and ultimately approval from City Council.
Some institutions have criticized that system as overly burdensome. In February, City Council asked the planning commission to review the matter.
On Wednesday, participants spoke for about two hours regarding where they saw room for improvement in the status quo. Institutions represented were Liberty University, Lynchburg College, Centra Health, Randolph College, Virginia University of Lynchburg, Holy Cross Regional Catholic School, James River Day School and the YMCA.
Attendees expressed differing levels of concern about the current system, but the general consensus seemed to be that it could stand to be streamlined. Participants specifically suggested the process should be more focused on the significant external impacts their campuses have on the surrounding community rather than on internal issues that do not spill out beyond their walls.
Several participants also said they wanted more flexibility to change their master plans without seeking a new permit. It also was suggested that regulations could be clearer regarding what the city does or does not have authority over.
At the same time, the stakeholders agreed they wanted to maintain a collaborative partnership with the city and keep the lines of communication open. Some interest was expressed in devising an oversight system that was proactive rather than strictly reactive.
The planning commission plans to review and discuss the feedback gathered during a future meeting. Additional stakeholder meetings may be organized as this process moves forward.
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