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map. However, she did agree with those who spoke previously in that she does not understand why it would be necessary to rezone 4 acres. She feels that it could be beneficial to have additional services in that area. However, she objects to the LC-1 rezoning. Her first objection is that it is too close to her property. Secondly, it would destroy a flood plan which is part of the Haw River watershed as well as a creek that appears on the US Geological Survey Map. Her property is surrounded by the Haw River Watershed where only a small percentage of the land can be used for building which was a major factor in her decision to buy her property. The LC-1 zone, if enacted, will be 350 feet from her property and will be partly within the watershed zone. The northern half of her property and the southern half of Mr. Lieth's property are flooded from September to May, and for a short time after the summer rains. The two creeks on the map constantly flood and change course. At the present time they actually join on Mr. Lieth's property, not on hers. There are many other creeks feeding in, some larger than the ones shown on the map. These creeks constantly dam themselves with leaves and sticks. More water actually enters the ground system then moves through the creek on Hwy 54. This winter has not been typical. The area was unusually dry last Tuesday but after 1/2 inch of rain on Wednesday there was approximately 12 inches of water in most of the flood plain. This flood plain is critical to the aquifers in the area and the wells. Any interference with this flood plain will cause local wells to go dry. Another function of the floodplain is to prevent runoff from entering major watercourses at the same time. Interference with this floodplain and/or the creek could cause major flooding further down stream. She mentioned that the narrower LC-1 area along the creek is a very deep bowl. The area begins to widen at the point that the LC-2 designation begins and there is a large slope down to the creek on three sides. The area which slopes down from the highway on the LC-2 property is also considerable. She cannot imagine a desirable LC-1 use for this property that would also keep the creek in its natural condition. Even if Mr. Lieth has in mind a LC-1 use that would keep the floodplain and creek intact she would still be concerned that this rezoning could allow it to be used for any other LC-1 usage in the future. Gradually it could be degraded by future owners. She also mentioned that there are deep holes on this property that should not be filled in order to maintain the natural state of the floodplain. She asked the Board of Commissioners to consider making the entire area along the creek up to Hwy 54 part of the Haw River Watershed so that a buffer along the creek can be required. Mr. Vernon Davis, a local resident, stated that he was not speaking for or against this proposal, but rather wanted to present several facts for the record. He mentioned that an earlier request to rezone this area Agricultural Services (AS) was withdrawn. He stated that the need for additional commercial zoning in this area exists. The existing businesses in the area are thriving to the extent that you have to wait in line to be served at many times during the day. He is concerned about the application for this rezoning. He requested a rezoning in the past which was denied because there was no acreage available. There have been no amendments to the Land Use Plan which would create more acreage. He feels there is a need for additional commercial development. He also expressed concern about traffic on Highway 54. If additional commercial development is allowed he felt that the traffic problems on Highway 54 need to be addressed. He mentioned that this particular parcel on which rezoning is being requested was deemed unsuitable for a septic system and would need an alternative system. He stated that if additional acreage were made available, he would like to have an opportunity to reapply to have his property rezoned. He is currently losing a tenant because of lack of space for that business to expand. COMMENTS FROM THE APPLICANT: Mr. Armin Lieth thanked the community members who have spoken both in favor of and in opposition to this rezoning request. He felt that it was good for the community to be involved even when there was disagreement. He stated that he is a member of the Bingham TAC and was a member of the Small Area Work Group. His participation in the Small Area Work Group was the source of his comments regarding the community's desire to have additional commercial Q:119990221d.c