• Public Hearing - amendment to Subdivision Code and Zoning Code

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

From:  Jon R. Oliphant, Planning & Development Director
Subject:  Public Hearing – Zoning and Subdivision Amendments
Date:  December 12, 2007

Attached you will find a draft of the proposed Zoning and Subdivision Code text amendments. The Zoning Code amendments address the growing number of grandiose private playgrounds. Both staff and City Aldermen have heard complaints from residents about their location infringing on adjacent property owners. The Zoning Code does not currently address playgrounds. The amendments (referred to as "open play systems") would only deal with the placement and height of such equipment. There would not be a permit required, though it would give staff the ability to enforce where the open play systems are located. They would be treated as an accessory structure or use.

The new Subdivision Code text is similar to what has been discussed previously with the Planning Commission. The Sidewalks section of the Code was previously reviewed at public hearings on July 5 and October 3. The amendments were drafted following comparisons of other Peoria-area communities and conversations with our Public Services Committee. A couple of the differences between this version and the last is that the walking space would only be constructed where the primary entrance is, instead of next to the front of the building. The walking space would only be a minimum of four feet (instead of six) on other sides where parking is located and staff would have the ability to waive or reduce the requirements in certain impractical or unnecessary circumstances. Also, in situations where there is not an immediate need for sidewalks, the builder (not the developer) would pay for the current cost of the sidewalk construction.

A public hearing has been scheduled regarding the proposed Zoning and Subdivision text amendments for January 2, 2008.

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