Raleigh, N.C. — In some of Raleigh's oldest neighborhoods, newer homes nearly double or triple the size of the ones around them. Some say it's ruining the character of their communities.
The Raleigh City Council planned to discuss the issue at a Tuesday night meeting. The hearing will focus on infill – the practice of knocking down old houses and replacing them with larger ones.
- Watch the WRAL News at 11 p.m. for an update on the debate.
People on both sides of the infill issue have organized groups and set up Web sites. It's a debate that can pit economics against aesthetics.
Since 2002, about 600 houses have been torn down and rebuilt. A group called Renew Raleigh argues that it boosts property values. If the city of Raleigh restricts how big is too big to rebuild, the group plans to fight it.
“We all have property rights, and I shouldn’t have somebody in some other neighborhood telling me what to do with my property,” said Philip Miller, a Raleigh lawyer and member of Renew Raleigh.
Mayor Charles Meeker said there is not a one-size-fits-all solution and he wants to see the issue dealt with neighborhood by neighborhood.
The council also plans to discuss doubling impact fees charged on new development. Supporters say it helps growth pay for itself. Opponents say it will slow an already struggling housing market.



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March 19, 2008 1:17 p.m.
Drive down St. Mary's Road and look at the McMansions that have been slammed up against the road and smashed into divided lots. It's just pathetic.
March 18, 2008 5:03 p.m.
March 18, 2008 4:51 p.m.
"I think you're defending the terrorists - if they make your property values rise, they can't be all bad. I'm wearing the hat your wife knitted for me."
so I am on the list because I disagree with you about basic consumer freedom being sold down the river and because I don't believe in giving my government any more intrusive power than it already has...hmmm.
And if you are wearing a hat my wife knitted then you are crazier than I thought...you should see her knitting...it's aweful...stick with the tinfoil (protecting your brain from government intrusions should be your first priority).
lol... and the crack den thing...priceless.
(c:
March 18, 2008 4:45 p.m.
These places are going to make really nice crack dens in the near future when the owners can't afford the balloon payments and they get foreclosed.
I think you're defending the terrorists - if they make your property values rise, they can't be all bad. I'm wearing the hat your wife knitted for me.
March 18, 2008 4:38 p.m.