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Keokuk council sets hearings on adaptive reuse rules and updated subdivision code
Summary
Council scheduled public hearings to amend zoning (Title 20) to allow adaptive reuse of special‑use buildings in residential districts and to update the subdivision code (Title 19) to conform with Iowa Code Chapter 354; staff explained adaptive reuse is a special‑use review process and that parking, fire access, and two‑mile review questions were addressed.
Keokuk City Council on May 15 set public hearings to consider two land‑use code changes: an amendment to Title 20 to add adaptive reuse of special‑use buildings in residential zoning districts, and an update to Title 19 (plats and subdivisions) to align with Iowa Code Chapter 354.
Staff explained adaptive reuse provisions apply to special‑use buildings (examples given: churches, schools, city hall) and do not automatically grant new uses; applicants must proceed through the planning commission and, if applicable, the board of adjustment where conditions (such as parking or operational limits) can be added. The staff presentation referenced a proposed purchase of the former Cavalry Baptist Church at 1028 Exchange Street by Brenda David Mcavish and Crystal Ballentine, who plan a wedding/event venue and related services. Staff noted the site has a small parking lot (roughly 8–10 spaces) and said parking and access would be reviewed under the special‑use process.
On the subdivision code update, staff said Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission assisted the planning commission and noted the primary changes clarify definitions for minor versus major subdivisions (minor = fewer than four lots and no new utilities) and adjust review responsibilities, including the optional two‑mile review outside the city limits used primarily to assist future annexation planning.
Council members and planning staff discussed fire department concerns (hydrants and access roads) and the role of regional planning input. Staff encouraged members to review the packet materials and said specific permit criteria and conditions will be vetted through the planning commission before council action.
Hearings on both ordinances were scheduled to allow public input prior to any final action.
