Parowan Planning and Zoning recommends updated subdivision code to City Council after empty public hearing; tree-planting language may be revisited

The Parowan Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 8 opened a public hearing on proposed amendments to Parowan City Municipal Code Title 14 (Subdivision Regulations), heard no public comment, and voted to give a positive recommendation to the Parowan City Council to approve the updated Chapter 14.

A motion opened the public hearing and, with no members of the public present to speak, a subsequent motion closed the hearing. The commission then voted to forward a positive recommendation to the City Council.

Commissioners and staff noted a concurrent discussion at City Council and the Shade Tree Committee about tree maintenance and a separate code provision that requires planting a tree before issuance of a certificate of occupancy. According to remarks on the record, the planning commission’s recommended update removed the paragraph that would have required planting a tree as a condition of certificate of occupancy. Councilman Dean and the Shade Tree Committee had been considering language that would change the requirement to a recommendation rather than a mandate; City Council could add or modify that language when it considers the subdivision-code update.

The public hearing record contained no public comments. The commission’s positive recommendation sends the proposed Chapter 14 changes to the City Council for its review and potential amendment.

The commission also discussed administrative housekeeping matters and committee terms. The City Council’s upcoming work session is expected to review administrative code and other items related to the city’s boards and committees.