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MILLS RIVER
imagine
WELCOME TO IMAGINE MILLS RIVER
MILLS RIVER
imagine
LATEST NEWS
Town Council Public Hearing set for Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 6:30PM
The Town Council will conduct its first public hearing on the draft unified development ordinance ("UDO") and associated zoning map in the Council Chambers at Town Hall on Thursday, June 11, 2026, starting at 6:30 PM. All are encouraged to attend and share your thoughts and questions. It is important to know that a draft bill has been filed in the General Assembly that seeks to revoke the Town's exemption from the recent "Downzoning Bill." While this revocation bill is still a draft and has not yet been passed by the General Assembly, it will impact the Town's draft Unified Development Ordinance in profound ways if it is passed. There will be more information available about this latest development discussed during the public hearing. No matter what happens, this public hearing is an important opportunity to share your thoughts and ask your questions about the UDO and zoning map. We hope to see you there!
PROJECT GOALS
Imagine Mills River is a project to create the Town’s first unified development ordinance (or “UDO”). A UDO controls the type and location of development as well as the rules for new development to follow. It controls features like landscaping, exterior lighting, open space, parking, housing density, and many others. The main goal of the UDO is to promote the public’s health, safety, and general welfare. It is also an important tool for protecting community character and the Town’s agricultural heritage. The UDO includes the Town’s zoning map, or the geographic distribution of uses like homes, businesses, roads, and parks.
While the Town already has a set of development regulations, and has been considering changes to those rules through projects like the recent Rural Residential Zoning District initiative, the main reason for the Imagine Mills River project is to implement Making Mills River, the Town’s comprehensive plan, which was adopted in 2021.
The following are the key project goals for Imagine Mills River:
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Protecting rural character.
Implementing the Town's adopted land use policy guidance (like Making Mills River).
Preserving farms and agricultural activity.
Identifying the optimal location for new homes, businesses, and open space.
Protecting sensitive natural environments (like waterways, steep slopes, and habitat).
Providing an adequate range of housing choices for people of all ages and incomes.
Promoting sustainable development and property values.
PROJECT SCHEDULE
This graphic shows the draft project schedule. It includes 7 tasks to be completed by June of 2026.
HOW TO USE THIS SITE
This webpage is a source for details about the Imagine Mills River project, the new UDO, and how to get involved with the project.
LEARN
ASK
FIND
PARTICIPATE
This VIDEO provides details on the project goals, scope, schedule, and other aspects.
The FAQ tab is a place to find answers to your questions about the project and pose new ones for the project team to consider.
The DOCUMENTS tab is a place for current Town documents and draft work products prepared as a part of the Imagine Mills River project.
The PARTICIPATE tab describes the times and places where you can ask questions, provide input, and get more detailed information.
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