The public hearing for the Hoosier Heartland Corridor overlay district was held at the Area Plan Commission meeting on April 28.

Miriam Robeson, Carroll County Zoning Ordinance Update Project Steering Committee member, stated the purpose of the overlay is to protect the property, public safety, align land use, provide consistency, and prevent unplanned construction in the 1,000 foot buffer of the state right away along the corridor.

Newly appointed Delphi representative Kirk Germond and members of the audience asked Robeson several questions.

Robeson said the steering committee used models from Boone and Hedricks counties to develop the overlay. She explained while some language may be general and ambiguous, the steering committee determined it was better to error on the side of flexibility. Robeson added if it did not allow for fair determinations committee members would take another look at it. They may find out later that there is a need to "tighten the ordinance up."

Robeson explained that parcels under three acres will be expected to conform with the zoning policy unless the home is significantly altered. Homeowners who want to rebuild and the property is not on a minimum of three acres would be required to apply for a special exception from APC.

APC attorney Cynthia Harmon said there was "a good chance" of getting an exception for lots less than three acres.

Robeson added that farms zoned agriculture in the overlay district will be able to construct additional buildings which are used for agricultural purposes.

The HHC overlay received a unanimous favorable recommendation. It is expected to be presented to the county commissioners May 18 for approval.

Robeson advised that steering committee meetings are open to the public. Meeting information and the HHC overlay district can be found at http://www.carrollcountyzoning. wordpress.com.

Other Business

Zoning administrator Kathy Mylet received permission to charge a $50 fee to elevate properties that were flooded twice. Mylet said homes elevated in 2008 did not sustain flood damage in 2009.

The next meeting will be May 23 at 7 p.m.