In accordance with state law, this Chapter regulates lots, structures and uses in order to preserve, protect and promote the public health, safety and welfare and to implement the Village comprehensive plan. More specifically, this Chapter is intended to assist in achieving the following objectives:

   (A)   To expand economic opportunities and strengthen the community tax base. This will require a concentrated effort and support of effective programs for economic development. Existing agricultural support business should be maintained. Heavy industrial uses should be eliminated and commercial activities compatible with residential growth should be encouraged.

   (B)   To promote efficiency in the use of land. Efficiency in the use of land will conserve land resources. This will minimize the cost of public services and utilities while permitting a higher standard of service.

   (C)   To develop and enhance a community spirit and identity. People must identify themselves with a community before they feel they are part of the community. Traditions and pride must be encouraged if the residents are to unite and promote the best interests of their community.

   (D)   To upgrade the housing types throughout the Village. Conservation, rehabilitation and redevelopment techniques should be utilized as an overall program for upgrading the Village's housing stock. Quality housing must be provided for prospective residents as population increases occur.

   (E)   To provide a healthful community environment and a full range of municipal or public amenities and services. Community utilities and facilities have been upgraded and extended in order to attract new residents to the community. As development increases, such utilities should be monitored and provided for.

   (F)   To continue the development of an efficient street and transportation system for movement of people and goods within, to and from the community. Development of street and highway system should be coordinated so that the movement of people and goods will be convenient, safe and in context with overall community needs.

   (G)   To achieve understanding and support of the planning program. By providing a broad range of opportunity for citizen participation in public decisions, an increased understanding of the function and problems of the local government will develop. The continuous process of citizen participation results in public acceptance and support of the various planning insures and of the plan itself, thereby providing the community with a better environmental quality. (Purpose and Goal of Zoning Regulations (Comprehensive Plan), as adopted the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Village Board of Trustees, Joint meeting, January 28, 2002).

   (H)   To provide for the efficient administration and fair enforcement of all the regulations in this Chapter.

(Ord. No. 17-11; 12-12-17)

   This Chapter shall be applicable to all lands within the corporate limits of the Village. Outside of the corporate limits, the unincorporated territory within one and one-half (1 1/2) miles of the Village is subject to the Madison County Zoning Code (enacted pursuant to Illinois statutes). Consequently, if proper application is made to Madison County for an interpretation of the building and zoning administrator or for a variance, special use permit, text amendment or rezoning, similar proceedings need not be initiated with the Village. However, in such cases, the Village is entitled to notice from Madison County.

   In interpreting and applying the provisions of this Chapter, they shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public safety, health, convenience, comfort, morals, prosperity and general welfare. It is not intended by this Chapter to interfere with or abrogate or annul any ordinances, rules, regulations or permits previously adopted or issued, and not in conflict with any of the provisions of this Chapter, or which shall be adopted or issued pursuant to law relating to the use of buildings or premises and likewise not in conflict with this Chapter, nor is it intended by this Chapter to interfere with or abrogate or annul any easements, covenants or other agreements between parties; except, that if this Chapter imposes a greater restriction, this Chapter shall control.

   Except as may be provided otherwise by statute or ordinance, no official, board member, agent, or employee of the Village shall render himself or herself personally liable for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his or her duties under this Chapter. Any suit brought against any official, board member, agent or employee of the Village, as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his or her duties under this Chapter, shall be defended by the Village until the final determination of the legal proceedings.