Elected officials voted Aug. 5 to let the proposed development of more than 1,000 new homes in two proposed subdivisions in Zebulon move forward, but recognized that the projects may strain public safety resources.
Both rezonings were approved by unanimous vote after the town’s fire and police chiefs discussed how the influx of new citizens would put pressure on the town’s emergency resources.
Responding to a question from Commissioner R. Dale Beck, Fire Chief Chris Perry said it may be difficult for firefighters to respond to the Sidney Creek subdivision within four minutes, which is the department’s goal for response times. The town only has one fire station.
“This is definitely one of those farther areas from our existing station, and it is also remote as we look to locate a new fire station,” Perry said.