After amendments, Bottoms Bridge Overlay gets approval from New Kent leaders

A proposed set of regulations aimed at governing the appearance of development along the main arterial highways (New Kent Highway and Pocahontas Trail) in the Bottoms Bridge area of New Kent has been approved by county supervisors.

Monday evening’s decision comes after a one-month reflection period to address areas of concern from county supervisors. The overlay district is designed to bring aesthetic and visual character to the land, public health, safety, and welfare. Exceptions to the color aspect include that nationally recognized trademarks, colors, and logos (such as McDonald’s bright yellow color) be exempted upon approval of the development director.

Community development director Matthew Smolnik began work on the issue in August 2014 and presented a brief summary of the proposal at the board’s June regular meeting. At Monday night’s meeting, Smolnik offered one additional change requested by county supervisors. An amendment to allow roof signs was implemented in the rewritten ordinance. Conditions for roof signs include if a façade cannot be placed on the building, roof signs must not exceed 10 percent of the total area.

District 5 supervisor Ray Davis expressed concern over the proposal, saying it impacts small, rural businesses.

“My biggest worry is that if you do it at Bottoms Bridge it may be done everywhere else,” Davis said. “I think if you did that, it would only benefit the big businesses because they can afford it.

“I have heartache seeing this ordinance go countywide,” he added, mentioning that he’s been approached by citizens who worry that the ordinance may be placed in other districts.

District 1 representative Thomas Evelyn agreed with Davis, but said the overlay is good, especially for the Bottoms Bridge area.

“I understand where Mr. Davis is coming from because some small businesses operate out of their homes,” Evelyn commented. “This ordinance supports this area and the people of Bottoms Bridge support it.

“I have no problem voting in favor of it if that’s what the people of this area want,” he concluded.

The proposals listed in the Bottoms Bridge overlay district only would apply to new businesses coming into the county or if an old business undergoes a major renovation project. Current businesses would be grandfathered and not have to abide by the proposed regulations unless a massive overhaul occurs. Smolnik also indicated that exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis.

Supervisors passed the ordinance with a 4-1 favorable recommendation, with Davis casting the lone dissenting vote.