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CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. — In a meeting that ranged from procedural housekeeping to passionate debate over the village’s future, the Chimney Rock Planning Board laid the groundwork for a pivotal summer of development decisions. A wave of short-term rental applications and a complex rezoning proposal dominated the agenda on June 24, reflecting the mounting pressures and opportunities in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
The board did not make final decisions on rezoning but took critical steps toward evaluating how a key piece of land—potentially essential for Chimney Rock’s economic revival—could be redeveloped.
What happened in that room wasn’t just another town meeting—it was a defining moment for the future of Chimney Rock. I was the only journalist there to witness and document the full scope of what took place, from the high-stakes debate over development to the quiet tensions that will shape decisions for years to come. Because of the time, access, and original reporting involved, this story is available exclusively to paid subscribers. If you're already a subscriber, just make sure you're signed in to read. If you're not, and $15/month isn't feasible right now, I understand—please take advantage of the 7-day free trial. Substack allows you to cancel anytime. Your support makes this kind of independent, on-the-ground journalism possible.
10 Key Takeaways from the planning board meeting
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