Final draft of Comprehensive Plan presented to APC
By Theresa Replogle Contributing writer

Comprehensive planning steering committee representative Miriam Robeson recently presented the final draft of the Carroll County Comprehensive Development Plan to the area plan commission. Robeson called the plan "a guide or foundation for zoning, a good tool."

Commission member Paul Marcellino noted the presentation of the plan was quite timely.

"People are already knocking on our doors," he said.

The plan, Robeson explained, is built around five pillars (basic ideas): land use management environment economic development transportation public infrastructure and services.

She briefly noted goals for each area as follows:

Land use management

Since Carroll County has the highest number of lakes, streams and rivers in the state, Robeson said the plan recommends managing them in an environmentally responsible manner with unique requirements for development.

The plan encourages the development of agricultural and residential areas to be in harmony.

Robeson said the plan encourages developers to drive appropriate growth toward compatible infrastructure.

Economic Development

One plan goal was to facilitate the expansion of old businesses, encourage new business, attract and retain jobs, attract the renewable energy industry, foster entrepreneurship and support agriculture.

Transportation

Development of roads, alternative means of transportation and bicycle paths to ensure quality, safe and efficient transportation systems was addressed. Meeting the goal would enhance Carroll County as a destination for tourism and recreation.

"No matter where you live in Carroll County, you should be no less than two miles from an improved road," Robeson said.

Environmental

The goal of this part of the plan was to do no harm to the existing environment, and protect areas of historical significance.

The possibility of Carroll County creating its own landfill, Robeson said, could have a huge economic impact, but must not be environmentally dangerous.

Infrastructure.

Safe water, safe waste disposal and emergency services are part of this area of the plan. In order for emergency services to reach people in a timely manner, it would be important to place new development close to current development.

This part of the plan also encourages that zoning ordinances, building inspection and building codes be properly enforced.

There is a section of the plan for each incorporated or outlying portion of Carroll County except for the town of Flora which has its own plan.

The comprehensive development plan is available online at www.carrollcountyzoning.wor dpress.com. The public may also read a copy of the plan at local libraries or attend the next meeting of the area plan commission on October 21 when the public will be able to comment.

Moratorium on billboards

APC voted to recommend to commissioners no new outdoor advertising signs be permitted within 2,000 feet of the right-of-way of the proposed Hoosier Heartland Highway route. The moratorium would remain in effect until the passage of the Carroll County Hoosier Heartland Overlay District or April 1, 2009, whichever comes first.

Other business

Richard Fite was granted approval to re-zone 485 E. Cumberland Street, Camden, from residential to light industrial. This is the original site of Fite's Mobility. There were no objections to the request.

Board of Zoning Appeals

Michael and Renee Sanders of Pirates Roost Rd. were granted a six-foot variance with a one-foot set back for an addition to a house. A 13-foot variance was also granted for the backyard with a set back of seven feet. The variance for the backyard was granted as the couple already owns the adjoining lot. There were no objections.

The next meeting will be Oct. 21 at 7 p.m.