The Kerrville 2050 comprehensive plan was adopted in June 2018, and one of the recommendations from that process was to create a Code Review Committee to update the zoning ordinance, zoning map, subdivision ordinance, and development standards (which includes the landscape ordinance, sign ordinance, and night skies ordinance). The group, made up of citizens and community leaders, has been meeting since October, and this Thursday will hold an open house to present their progress to the community and to gather feedback with regards to their work so far.
The open house is schedule for 5 PM to 7 PM at the Dietert Center on Guadalupe Street in Kerrville. This come-and-go event will be open to the public with a short presentation at 5:20 PM.
Why it’s important
Because the city’s codes have an impact on almost everything that happens in our city, the importance of this committee’s work cannot be overstated. So many of the complaints about any city revolve around building codes, zoning, and development regulations. Many of these laws have not seen a major update since 2011. This committee’s goals include making those laws clear and concise, as well as implementing and enforcing them uniformly and fairly. According to the committee’s official charge, the goals include:
…Improve overall functionality and practicality of the City’s ordinances, and to reflect the vision established in the Kerrville 2050 Comprehensive Plan. The primary objective of developing these updated ordinances is to establish a set of standards/guidelines and procedures for development that builds upon the existing character of the community while supporting economic development and overall livability.
Scope of Services, Code Review Committee
Now is the time to review this committee’s work and offer feedback, criticism, encouragement, and recommendations.
Who is on the committee?
The volunteer committee members include citizens and leaders with a wide variety of occupations, experience, and perspectives. The list includes:
- Danny Almond
- David Martin
- Wendy Anderson
- Alex Monroe
- Kim Clarkson
- Bill Morgan
- Peter Lewis
- Mary Ellen Summerlin
- Ruben Exum
- Sue Tiemann
- John Fleckenstein
- Doyle Weaver
- Sandra Garcia
- Mike Wellborn
- Larry Howard
What happens next?
Following this open house, the committee will continue its work in creating draft documents, maps, and recommendations. According to the project schedule (pictured below), the committee will present their work for adoption by the Planning & Zoning Commission and City Council in August 2019.
Takeaways
- This open house is one of the few times when the general public is welcomed to review the work of this “blue ribbon” committee while the work is still in progress.
- Too often, citizens only begin to offer feedback when a matter is before the City Council. However, this type of work and modifications takes place over many months, and it is appropriate and encouraged to begin to offer feedback at this time.
- In addition to offering feedback, community members should thank and congratulate the volunteer committee members for taking on this important work.
