Controversial zoning change begins public comment period

The clock is ticking for the public comment period on changes to Electric City’s zoning changes.

The city has submitted its zoning changes to the state and this triggers a 60-day public comment period when the citizens can let their wishes known.

The biggest issue in the change is the size of accessory buildings.

The changes were submitted by the planning commission and when the city council failed to act on the entire package, three planning commission members resigned.

The planning commission had proposed that the maximum size of accessory buildings be changed from 850 square feet to 1,728 square feet.

The council lifted the maximum size and voted to not limit the size of the buildings.

Then it was revealed that the size had to fit within the International Building Code which allows for 3,000 square feet.

Other items on the zoning changes had to do with fencing and home occupation businesses, both a minor part of the planning commission report.

The 60-day review process will run through May 26, and the city has tentatively scheduled a public hearing on the matter before the city council, June 2.