Council appoints Sarah Franklin as zoning administrator; planning commission begins major signage code rewrite

The council introduced Sarah Franklin as the town’s new zoning administrator and welcomed her to the role at the meeting. Franklin said she previously worked with the town’s planning commission and has returned to the area to take the position.

Members of the Planning and Zoning Commission, led by chair Cindy, told the council they are beginning a comprehensive review of the town’s signage code (code section referenced in the meeting as 290-22). Cindy said the current code dates from about 2011 and is roughly three pages long; the commission’s review and supporting materials total many more pages and will be presented as a draft amendment likely in the spring for council consideration.

Council members praised Franklin’s experience; several who have worked with her previously described her as prepared and thorough and said they expect the new arrangement (Franklin signing final zoning documents under her contract role) to help streamline permitting. Franklin said the role is a contract position and that the budgeted funds for the position were covered under existing budget line items.

Council members asked staff to consider process improvements so the town can help applicants “get to yes” while maintaining code compliance. Franklin said she tries to help applicants resolve permit issues and that she will work with staff and the council to streamline processes where appropriate.

Ending: Planning Commission will continue its signage review and expects to submit a draft code amendment for council review; staff said the town has budgeted for the contracted zoning-administrator role.