City to notify property owners as planning commission updates zoning map; city says changes will not affect taxes or ownership

City planning staff told the Jasper City Council on Tuesday that the planning commission will update about 300 parcels in the city’s zoning map over the next four months and that affected property owners will receive mailed notices and on-site signs as required by state law.

Speaking during the meeting’s public-comment portion, planning staff said the commission will process the updates in groups of about 50 to 55 parcels and that the process is largely a map-cleanup exercise. The staff member said the updates change map designations and not parcel ownership, tax status or annexation.

“We are putting out signs because the state requires that in your yard or wherever the property is that says public hearing notice,” the staff member said, and warned that residents may call the city when they see the signs. The staff member added that the notices are required by state code and that, for most parcels, the changes simply correct how the parcel is shown on the map; no immediate change to services, taxes or ownership will occur.

City staff advised residents who receive notices to contact the annexation/planning office with questions. Members of the council also said the city will try to provide additional outreach and information to residents who may be confused by the signs.

The planning commission hearing schedule and public-notice materials were not included in the transcript; staff said hearings and notices are required by state code and will be scheduled over the coming months.