Planning staff presents Unified Development Ordinance revisions; commission seeks more review time

Planning staff presented proposed revisions to the Town of Saint John's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) at a Nov. 5 study session and asked the Planning Commission for feedback on timing for a public hearing.

Staff said revisions respond to legal formatting comments and Public Works technical requests. Proposed changes include updating lighting standards to prefer LED specifications rather than a list of wattage options; adopting INDOT (state) street-design standards so the town does not duplicate specifications; and modifying asphalt section recommendations to a 2.5-inch binder with a 2-inch top coat and a 3% cross slope for streets. Staff also said they revised tree setback language to reference up-to-date standards.

Planner-presented analysis shows the townwide built density is about 1.13 units per acre, with 10.16% of land covered by buildings and about 21.16% impervious. Staff proposed suggested maximum residential densities: estate residential up to 2 units per acre, suburban up to 4, and general residential 7–8 units per acre (the planner said the commission could choose lower caps if desired).

Commissioners recommended integrating the comprehensive master plan's intent into the ordinance text so that plan objectives carry regulatory weight. Several commissioners asked for more time to review the draft and suggested delaying the public hearing until 2026 to allow a thorough review; staff said they would return the draft at the December meeting but will accept comments earlier.

Staff also announced public outreach: one online comment had been received and the draft was posted in the town newsletter; a Building & Planning open house is scheduled for Dec. 9, 5:30–7 p.m. at the community center for public questions about building, approvals and planning processes.