Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Municipal Code Review topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Ocean Shores planning commission starts review of municipal codes last updated in the 1970s
Summary
The commission discussed a mayoral request to review and update older municipal codes, starting with ordinances last amended in the 1970s, and public comment urged a coordinated, comprehensive rewrite rather than piecemeal changes.
The Ocean Shores Planning Commission on Sept. 23, 2025 discussed a mayoral request to begin reviewing municipal code sections that were last updated in the 1970s. Commissioners said the review should start with the oldest provisions and that Chairman Mark Wallace will likely assign sections for review.
Commissioners debated whether to parcel the work into manageable sections—similar to how they reviewed the planning commission handbook—or to tackle the municipal code as an integrated overhaul. A public commenter who described themselves as experienced with Ocean Shores’ history recommended a comprehensive, integrated rewrite rather than piecemeal updates. That commenter warned that some older code language derives from the town’s prior covenant/HOA contract history and can conflict with federal law, including the Fair Housing Act, and suggested a moratorium period for applications while new code provisions are implemented.
Commissioners acknowledged uncertainty about scope and volume, with the mayor’s request likely covering numerous code sections. No formal timeline or assignment was adopted at the Sept. 23 meeting; members said the topic would return to the agenda after the chair compiles initial findings and assigns review responsibilities to commissioners or staff.
