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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 1997 <br /> <br />over the nature and character of their own neighborhoods, through the establishment and use of restrictions <br /> <br />that they themselves would create, agree to, and help enforce, as well as provide more information to Council <br />on their desires for their neighborhoods. Mr. Knox also stated that the design restrictions could be as <br />stringent or as liberal as each neighborhood chose them to be. In response to a question from Vice-Mayor <br />Crabtree, Mr. Knox acknowledged that such design overlay districts could be established in commercially <br />zoned areas as well. Councilmember Teagne observed that these districts were essentially an extension of the <br />City' s existing zoning districts. Councilmember Haskell stated that these districts would give residents an <br />important tool to maintain and enhance the value of their property. In response to Councilman Teague, Mr. <br />Knox agreed that the impact of such districts on neighborhoods would be much like the recent improvements <br />seen in Uptown Martinsville. In seeking clarification, Councilmember Haskell asked if action to approve the <br />resolution would constitute a request to the Virginia General Assembly to allow the City to change its <br />charter. Mr. Knox answered that it would. Councilmember Dallas then asked what would happen if an <br />individual purchased a house in such a district and could not afford to comply with the district design <br />requirements. Mr. Knox stated that such requirements would be in place and on record for a purchaser to be <br />aware of prior to their purchase, so buyers would know the situation before they bought into an overlay <br />district. Mr. Reynolds further explained that the new design requirements would only apply to renovations, <br />modifications or new construction, should a home owner or developer choose to change a building after <br />purchase. He further stated that the design overlay concept would evolve over time, and that regulations <br />imposed would be the product of a continuous public process of setting neighborhood standards. There being <br />no further comment regarding the proposed Charter change, Mayor Adams closed the Public Hearing. Upon <br />motion duly seconded, and by unanimous vote, Council adopted the following Resolution: <br /> <br />RESOLUTION <br /> <br /> OFTlIE <br /> <br /> <br />