Argus Leader: McCook panel endorses Laurent zoning ordinance
MELANIE BRANDERT
Published: 07/6/05
The McCook County Planning Commission recommended Tuesday a zoning ordinance that would permit development of the town of Laurent.
The recommendation will go to the County Commission, which will have the first reading July 19. If commissioners approve that version, the second reading would be Aug. 2.
Planning Commission members voted 4-1, with Orville Hofer of Bridgewater voting against the recommendation.
Laurent, a town for sign-language users, needs a new zoning ordinance because the county’s use-based zoning does not allow for construction of a town.
The planned development project would cultivate organized, controlled growth in the county, supporters say.
The town’s proposed site is at the southeast corner of the Salem interchange on Interstate 90.
The Planning Commission struggled with the proposed ordinance for several weeks, questioning wording and intent and considering feedback from an opposition group, McCook Citizens United. Members rejected a motion June 21 to advance the ordinance.
County Zoning Administrator John Knox said new portions of the ordinance include some amendments proposed by McCook Citizens United. For example, a legal description of the property and zoning district is required for the proposed site.
Project developers must provide awareness training on the right-to-farm covenant and living conditions next to agricultural areas to new adult residents and the development’s property owner within 90 days of arrival. Such training would have to be provided annually to future residents.
Reach reporter Melanie Brandert at 977-3926.