Planning Commission Weighs Historic District Limits and Housing Needs in Code Review

During its July 2 work session, the Front Royal Planning Commission reviewed three key code items: two proposed zoning text amendments and one in-progress draft aimed at refining definitions across the zoning ordinance. Discussions focused on limiting residential development in the historic district, accommodating special circumstance housing, and modernizing zoning language for clarity and future use.

: In the absence of Chairman Connie Marshner, the Town Planning Commission conducts a work session on the evening of Wednesday, July 2. Royal Examiner Photo Credits: Brenden McHugh.

One amendment, introduced at the request of the Board of Architectural Review (BAR), would restrict new residential development in the historic district to single-family homes only. It would prohibit future multi-family housing or new commercial projects in these residential areas, effectively creating R-1 zoning conditions within the existing R-3 zone, without formally changing the zoning designation.

“This is a line in the sand going forward,” said Vice Chairman Allen Neel, signaling a desire to preserve the single-family home character of the district. Planning Director Lauren Kopishke confirmed that the amendment’s goal is to protect the historic district’s integrity while allowing for exceptions through special use permits, which would still need to pass BAR and Town Council approval.

Deputy Zoning Administrator John Ware presents an item of business to the commission.

Commissioner Teresa Fedoryka raised questions about non-conforming existing uses, such as duplexes and multi-family homes, and whether those would be affected. The amendment allows these to remain under grandfathered status but restricts future developments to single-family residences only.

The second proposed amendment addresses special circumstance housing, aiming to provide zoning pathways for emergency and transitional housing for vulnerable populations. This includes individuals facing domestic abuse, homelessness, developmental disabilities, or recovery from crisis. The amendment follows interviews and collaboration with groups like the Phoenix Project and Harvest Mission Outreach Center, which help residents in need.

The challenge, according to the commission, lies in balancing community support with zoning regulations. The preferred approach is to integrate housing discreetly within residential areas without altering the appearance of the neighborhood. However, placing such housing in commercial zones may reduce available space for revenue-generating businesses, which presents a different concern.

The third item discussed was a comprehensive draft overhaul of the zoning code, currently in development. Planning Director Kopishke noted that this effort focuses on aligning definitions more closely with actual land use and zoning practices. She hopes the project will be completed by the end of the year.

The commission ended the session after reviewing preliminary definitions in the draft.

Next steps include continued review of the proposed amendments and community input before any formal recommendations are brought to the Town Council for final approval.

Click here to watch the Front Royal Planning Commission Meeting of July 2, 2025.