Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council refers first-reading zoning change on restaurants in business district to Planning Commission
Summary
After public comment raised concerns about impacts to up to 17 business lots and 34 adjacent residences, the council voted unanimously to send Ordinance 2026-01 (removing a 25-foot buffer restriction that limited restaurants) to the Planning Commission for review and report back before second reading.
On Feb. 9 the Harpers Ferry Town Council moved to send Ordinance 2026-01, a first-reading zoning change regarding permitted restaurant uses in the business district, to the Planning Commission for review and a report back to council.
During public comment, Zach Morse urged the council to send the proposed change to the Planning Commission for a study of impacts, noting it could affect up to 17 business lots and 34 adjacent residential lots. Council debate focused on potential impacts related to parking, noise, lighting and the effect on existing businesses that currently operate near residences.
Planning Commission chair Zach told council the commission could review the zoning change at its next meeting and report back before the council’s next session. Councilmember Christian argued that neighborhood-scaled commercial zoning provides certainty for existing businesses and residents; others said Planning Commission input was the prudent next step. The motion to commit Ordinance 2026-01 to the Planning Commission with a request for a report by the next council meeting was seconded and carried 7-0.
What happens next: the ordinance will be reviewed by the Planning Commission and returned to council with recommendations prior to any second reading or final action.
