1.

Abstract. The zoning ordinance is a land use control measure by which, through enforcement, uses of the land throughout the city can be regulated to better promote health, safety, morals and the general welfare. The ordinance permits the city to regulate and restrict:

(a)

The height, number of stories, and size of buildings and other structures,

(b)

The percentage of lot that may be occupied,

(c)

The size of yards, courts, and other open spaces,

(d)

The density of population, and

(e)

The location and use of buildings, structures, and land for trade, industry, residence, or other purposes, except farming.

The ordinance sets forth the regulations relative to residential, office, commercial and industrial, thereby affording assurance of compatibility through control and guidance of growth directions.

2.

The following effects on the environment are based on the assumption that the planning area will be developed in accord with the city's comprehensive planning program and controls necessary for the same will be adopted and enforced so as to further the goals and objectives program:

(a)

Adverse effects:

(1)

None.

(b)

Beneficial effects:

(1)

Controlled growth will enable the city to expand and efficiently provide services and facilities based on sound planning practices and principles,

(2)

Help assure compatible utilization of the land,

(3)

Protection of farm and wood lands as well as animal habitats,

(4)

Lower population densities in prime growth areas,

(5)

Protection of floodplain areas from unsuitable urban development,

(6)

Facilitate design of water/sewer facilities based on planned densities and development, and

(7)

Protection of property values.

3.

Effects of development which cannot be avoided entirely include the loss of natural vegetation, increases in water runoff and waste products, etc., incurred through normal growth and increasing development potential.

4.

The alternatives to land use control, i.e., no such control, would result in uncontrolled and undirected growth with ever-increasing soil erosion, flooding, air pollution and incompatible development.

5.

The goal of the ordinance is that of controlled and compatible growth with the primary objective being the immediate protection and preservation of land and water resources for future use.

6.

The conversion of agricultural land to urban uses cannot be reversed; however, a planned and controlled growth will mitigate the effects of possible loss of agricultural activity.

7.

State, federal and county environmental controls are currently in process of being enacted. This ordinance is intended to be the first stage in that process. The city plans to enact subdivision regulations and housing codes following the adoption of this ordinance.

8.

Adoption and enforcement of this ordinance will mitigate the potential adverse environmental effects of land development. Furthermore, such will supplement and assist in the continued enforcement of the above-mentioned controls.

9.

There have not been any significant problems encountered during the review process regarding the content of this ordinance, however, the locations for specific zoning districts have been debated during public hearings. The final determination for each contested area was made by the city council during a public meeting.