During a recent public hearing, the Mount Vernon City Council discussed a significant update to the city's zoning code, which has been in development for several months. The proposed changes aim to modernize the existing regulations, which have not been revised in over 30 years, and to address the growing demand for diverse housing options in the community.

Chairwoman Skinner opened the meeting by highlighting the extensive review process that the zoning code update has undergone, including unanimous approval from the Municipal Planning Commission following a public hearing on June 6. Despite this, several residents voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes, citing concerns about the complexity and length of the new code, which spans over 220 pages.

Donald Carfor, a member of the Board of Zoning Appeals, expressed frustration over the document's accessibility, noting that its length and legal jargon may deter public engagement. He raised specific concerns about the merging of residential and commercial zoning, arguing that it could lead to undesirable developments in neighborhoods.

Bob Beck echoed these sentiments, urging the council to reject the current draft of the zoning code. He emphasized the need for clear separation between residential and commercial properties to maintain the quality of life in Mount Vernon. Beck also criticized the reliance on zoning models from larger cities, arguing that they do not reflect the needs of a small town.

Conversely, supporters of the zoning update, including representatives from Habitat for Humanity, argued that the changes are crucial for addressing the city's housing shortage. They highlighted provisions for accessory dwelling units and mixed-use developments as essential steps toward increasing affordable housing options. Proponents believe that the new code will facilitate the construction of smaller homes and promote community diversity, ultimately benefiting residents and local businesses.

Wendy, a city planner involved in the drafting process, defended the zoning update, stating that it aims to provide flexibility for developers while ensuring community input in the planning process. She reassured attendees that existing developments would not be adversely affected by the changes and emphasized the importance of adapting to modern housing trends.

As the council continues to deliberate on the zoning code update, the community remains divided, with strong opinions on both sides regarding the future of housing and development in Mount Vernon. The council is expected to consider the feedback from this hearing as they move forward with the legislative process.