City Council holds public hearings on ordinances for interim zoning on Newton Road

The Bowling Green City Council held a public hearing on June 2, 2025, to discuss two significant ordinances, #9274 and #9276, both concerning interim zoning for recently annexed land on Newton Road. The meeting provided a platform for public input on these ordinances, which are crucial for the city's development plans.

Ordinance #9274 proposes the establishment of interim zoning classified as Innovation and Employment (IE) for approximately 46.17 acres located at 12698 and 12732 Newton Road. Planning Director Heather Sailor reported that the Planning Commission reviewed this request on April 2, 2025, and recommended the interim zoning to align with the city’s future land use map. The area currently contains two houses and requires annexation for city utilities, specifically water, as the property already has electric service.

The second ordinance, #9276, seeks to establish similar interim zoning for an additional 11.29 acres of land adjacent to the first parcel. This land is also owned by the same petitioner, Robert W. Mower, and was similarly reviewed by the Planning Commission. Sailor noted that this parcel is unique as it is landlocked and currently undeveloped, but the commission believes the IE zoning is appropriate for future development.

During the hearing, no representatives from the petitioner were present, and there were no public comments or correspondence regarding either ordinance. Council members expressed their agreement with the Planning Commission's recommendations for both ordinances, indicating a consensus on the proposed zoning changes.

The discussions from this public hearing will contribute to the city council's decision-making process regarding the adoption of these ordinances, which are aimed at facilitating future development in Bowling Green.