Hillsboro Special City Council Meeting

January 18, 2005

Mayo Baran called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.

Roll call was taken and those present were Mayor Baran, Commissioners Trost, Richmond, McCammack and Hill.

Mayor Baran informed the audience that the purpose of the meeting was to determine if any zoning parameters could be changed that would be beneficial to the Zoning Officer, Zoning Board and the individuals requesting zoning rulings. Mayor Baran then asked Commissioner Richmond to address members of the Zoning Board with his request.

Commissioner Richmond explained an example of a question that has come up. An individual was interested in building a lean-to in an area that would not allow compliance with the established setbacks. The owner of the adjacent property had no problem with allowing the lean-to and would sign an affidavit to that effect. Commissioner Richmond asked if that would be sufficient and avoid the time delays associated with obtaining a variance through a hearing with the Zoning Board.

Zoning Board member Bill Whitley stated there does need to be a hearing and postings in the paper, this settles any disputes from future property owners where a variance has been granted.

City Attorney Jarman also stated utility easements could come into play and they need time to be researched.

Commissioner Richmond asked if the notification and days required before a hearing could be shortened.

Board member Whitley stated an attorney wrote the portion of the Code involving variances from Belleville.

Attorney Jarman stated there needs to be reasonable time for anyone to voice concerns over any variance changes.

These responses from the Zoning Board answered the questions the Council had concerning variances.

Commissioner Richmond next asked the Council and Zoning Board if trees on private property obstructing vision on a street was a Zoning issue or one for the Council.

The property belongs to Joe Rapp, who says the City has encroached the roadway onto his property over the years when repaving.

It was determined this was a safety issue to be addressed by the Council and would be placed on the next agenda.

Mayor Baran thanked the Zoning Board for all of their hard work that is much appreciated.

Mayor Baran also asked the Board if they were aware of the 1.5-mile twilight zoning ordinance that has been passed by the Council. This ordinance extends the zoned area to its adjacent area for a mile and a half beyond the City limits. A new map is being drawn up to illustrate the new ordinance.

A question came from the Council to define the difference between modular and manufactured homes.

Bill Whitley explained manufactured homes are not allowed they are constructed with a steel frame and have no foundation. They could conceivably be readily moved to other sites. Modular homes have an all-wood foundation and are set on a concrete foundation like any other built house.

Motion to adjourn was made at 7:22 pm by Commissioner Richmond and seconded by Commissioner Hill. Motion carried 5-0.

Respectfully Submitted

Dave Booher, City Clerk