N.C. lawmaker defends bill he says addresses housing crisis as local officials raise concerns

A bipartisan bill that could change housing regulations throughout the state is drawing scrutiny from local officials in Forsyth County, but a representative for the area says the legislation aims to tackle the need for more homes.

House Bill 765 says a local government can't enact or enforce zoning regulations more restrictive than state law. It would also allow civil lawsuits against officials for damages connected to development decisions, among other things.

Several municipalities have passed resolutions opposing the bill, including Clemmons and Lewisville. Clemmons also recently had a special village council meeting where several residents and officials voiced opposition to it.

Jeff Zenger is a Republican representing Forsyth County and a primary sponsor for the legislation. He says it looks to address a housing crisis that has made it increasingly more difficult to become a first-time homebuyer.

"When we get to a point where we decided that it's okay to economically eliminate some people from home ownership, that's a problem," he says.

Zenger, who was a developer for years, reached a settlement with the town of Lewisville in 2023 for just under $2 million after local officials denied a proposal.

He says it's ridiculous to think someone with his professional experience can't also be involved with the legislation.

"How do you deal with the housing issue, with not having developers and builders involved," Zenger says. "You know, it's kind of like going to an emergency room and saying, 'Listen, I don't want a doctor because, you know, they're in it for money.'"

The bill is currently under review in the state House of Representatives.