A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the development of a zoning ordinance, prompted by the imminent expiration of a moratorium on January 1st. The urgency was emphasized due to concerns from the county about potential licensing approvals that could allow facilities near sensitive areas such as schools and care facilities. The board was informed of the necessity for clear proximity regulations, aiming to restrict sales related to certain licenses to specific zoning areas, particularly along highways, while prohibiting these sales in downtown areas. This move seeks to prevent conflicts and preserve the community’s character.

Collaborative efforts among board members have resulted in a draft ordinance, with ongoing discussions with county representatives to ensure alignment between local and county regulations. The draft aims to address zoning classifications and the possibility of adult-oriented establishments, sparking debate over their appropriate locations within the city. The board acknowledged the importance of clarity and consistency in definitions within the ordinance, particularly concerning daycare and other relevant terms, to avoid enforcement issues.

Board members circulated the draft ordinance to refine its language and correct typographical errors, including ensuring proper use of possessive forms. The completion of the draft is crucial, as the board intends to hold a public hearing by December 19th to gather community input before finalizing the ordinance.

In addition to zoning ordinances, the board discussed a minor subdivision request involving two properties owned by Glen Proudfoot and Leah Witchman, each seeking to acquire additional land for personal use. The proposed subdivision involves the acquisition of 16,000 square feet by Proudfoot and a smaller parcel by Witchman, with both properties situated within the R1 zoning district. The land to be acquired, from the Driscoll Southside properties, is not part of the existing subdivision. All necessary applications and fees have been submitted, and a survey has been completed.

The public hearing for this request highlighted the need for deed restrictions to tie the new parcels to the applicants’ existing properties. A proposal was made to rezone the newly created parcels from industrial to residential (R1) to match the existing residential properties. Concerns were raised over controlled access noted in the survey, with speculation about its implications for driveway creation. The board discussed the need for a special city stamp on the deeds to avoid tax implications for the property owner. Ultimately, a motion was made to recommend approval of the minor subdivision and rezoning, contingent upon deed restrictions, which the board unanimously supported.

Amid these discussions, the board reviewed future appointments and membership for the coming year, noting that one member is unlikely to return due to residing outside city limits. A new city attorney will commence service shortly, with discussions about the attorney’s attendance at future meetings based on the board’s requests. The mayor is expected to make annual appointments, with a new member named Fred joining the board.

The search for a Deputy City Administrator was also addressed, with an emphasis on the role’s responsibilities related to Planning and Zoning. The current administrator stressed the need for continuity, as previous personnel changes have led to a lack of consistency. The Deputy City Administrator’s role will allow the current individual, referred to as Kurt, to focus on Economic Development Authority tasks. The hiring process for this position is expected to conclude around February or March.