Vacant Lots on Grand Avenue Keep Their R-1 Designation at Town Council Meeting

The quiet, historic neighborhood on Grand Avenue was awakened out of its sleep two months ago when an item in the consent agenda for the Town Planning Commission indicated to Grand residents that two vacant lots on the street might be rezoned from the quiet, low density R-1 designation to R-3, famous for operating at a higher level of density that may include townhouses and duplexes, in contrast to R-1’s single-family character. These residents’ reaction time was unusual, given the typical, relatively low turnout for items like this one. At the March 23 Town Council meeting, where this item concluded, Mayor Lori Cockrell commended the audience for turning out in full force. She wished that the critical issues that the council regularly addresses always received this type of community response.

Vacant Lots on Grand Avenue Keep Their R-1 Designation at Town Council Meeting

That night, the council voted unanimously to maintain the R-1 designation for the two vacant lots, where applicant Dana Cline had requested rezoning to build two duplexes. Members of the neighborhood on Grand and several residents from adjacent streets spoke, as they had at two commission meetings, arguing that the rezoning would drastically change the character of the street and pose a dire threat to their property values and way of life. Cline, in his address to the council, stated that he has no desire to ruin the neighborhood and that he merely wants to make the most of his investment while meeting the need for affordable housing. Those representing the neighborhood emphasized that Cline knowingly bought property zoned R-1 and that single-family development would be a welcome contribution.

The mayor thanks Bryson Showers for his patriotism in leading the gathering in the pledge of allegiance.

The mayor recognizes the local Rotary’s presence in celebration of the organization’s 100 years of excellence.

It is unfortunate that life’s circumstances sometimes make opponents of people who would otherwise be friends. Multiple members of the council commended Cline for being a man of honor, recognizing the well-regarded family name in this community and wishing him the best as he seeks an alternative. Asked by the Royal Examiner what he plans to do, Cline indicated he does not yet have a concrete plan, though he is open to developing the lots in accordance with R-1 standards. The rezoning application with duplexes in mind, he said, was simply something he had to try. Whether or not he did it consciously, Cline brought the neighbors on Grand together. People living in isolation began talking to one another and organizing an effort to preserve what they feel is best about their neighborhood. With each presentation, they grew sharper and more connected.

Applicant Dana Cline speaks to the council in favor of a requested rezoning on Grand Avenue.

Other items included the approval of a short-term rental at 214 Lee Street; the approval of a tow-yard on Kibler Street with the condition that wrecked vehicles will not be allowed to remain on site for any amount of time; the approval of an exception to the maximum height of a retaining wall; the approval of auxiliary dwelling units as a by-right use with performance standards; the approval of an increase in electricity rates; and the tabling of a plan for revising the process and fees for special events on Town streets and property. Reports were brief, and new business followed, covering the approval of two requests for alley vacations and the approval of measures to pursue funds for the proposed analysis of a dam and a related geotechnical report. After passing the consent agenda and moving into closed session, the public portion of the council’s meeting came to an end.

Watch the Front Royal Town Council Meeting of March 23, 2026.