County BZA plays significant role in city zoning issues
By Debbie Lowe Staff writer

Carroll County Board of Zoning Appeals was the official entity to decide if a proposed building project by North Central Health Services would be allowed at the intersection of Summit St. and Prince William Rd. last week. It seemed unfair to some residents that a county quasi-governmental agency would have the final say in what would happen inside the city limits of Delphi.

Carroll County Zoning Administrator Dale Huffer was able to shed some light on the situation.

"It's because the City of Delphi made the decision in 1971 to join Carroll County Area Plan Commission," Huffer said. "The county formed a planning commission in 1971 for all incorporated cities and towns, with the exception of Flora. And it was never changed."

"Delphi could form their own planning commission and zoning board," Huffer added.

He explained that in the county plan, a separate zoning ordinance was designed for Delphi and was adopted by the city. Similar ordinances exist for Burlington, Camden and Yeoman.

"A re-zoning goes to the city council," Huffer said. "Variances and special exceptions do not. That's how the plan was designed."

Huffer said Delphi has always been represented by two out of the eight plan commission members. One mayoral appointment is made to the BZA, which is currently Linda Gretter.

According to a handout from Huffer, APC members are Bob McCain, Wayne Chapman, Tom Hesler, Stan Moore, Paul Marcellino, Pete Wagoner, John Hampton and Fred Wise.

BZA members are Pat Baker, George Wallace, Bob McCain, Linda Gretter and Tom Hesler.

For additional questions Huffer can be reached in the county zoning office on the second floor of the courthouse or by calling (765) 564-4468.