Supervisors set pair of public hearings for proposed changes in Allamakee County zoning ordinance

by Bob Beach

During its regular meeting Monday, December 12, the Allamakee County Board of Supervisors met with Allamakee County Zoning Administrator Tom Blake, who asked the Board to schedule two public hearings regarding proposed changes to the County’s zoning ordinance. The first of the two changes recommended by the County's Planning and Zoning Commission would allow cul-de-sac lengths to exceed the current maximum of 1,000 feet upon the recommendation of the Plat Review Committee and the Planning and Zoning Commission and the approval of the Board of Supervisors. The Board scheduled a public hearing on the proposed change for Tuesday, January 3 at 10 a.m.
The second of the proposed changes would change travel trailer parks and commercial campgrounds from a permitted use to a conditional use in agricultural zones. Blake explained that the change would allow for public input on applications for travel trailer parks and commercial campgrounds and review by the County Sanitarian and County Engineer. He said that the final decision to approve or disapprove applications would rest with the Board of Adjustment, which would need to hear “substantive reasons to disapprove applications.” The Board scheduled a public hearing on the proposed changed for Monday, January 10 at 10 a.m.
The Board also met with County Treasurer Lori Hesse, who asked the Board to approve an Iowa Department of Transportation request for office space in her office in the courthouse for a motor vehicle investigator three or four days per week. Hesse said that the State would pay for installation of phone lines and office equipment as well as monthly expenses, but not rent. Hesse said she believes that the advantages of making the space available would outweigh the disadvantages and the Board approved the request.
In other business, the Board met with Allamakee Economic Development Executive Director Laura Olson, who asked the Board to consider a $10,000 contribution in fiscal year 2013-14 to the Regional Housing Trust Fund, which provides funds for improvements to low-income housing. Olson said she would return in March for the Board’s decision. The Board also met in closed session with attorney Rick Zahasky to discuss strategy in collective bargaining negotiations with County employees.