Scott City council narrows zoning public hearings to Planning & Zoning Board in 6-1 vote

The Scott City Council voted 6-1 on Monday to amend its zoning ordinance so public hearings on zoning changes will be held before the Planning and Zoning Board rather than as public hearings before the council.

The change, carried as Bill No. 1404, was presented by Mayor Rick Brashear and discussed during a short public hearing. Developer Monty Keesee asked for clarification about the procedure. Resident Dale Rogers told the council he “felt the ordinance needs to stay the way it is for better transparency.” City Attorney Mary Eftink-Boner told the council state statute requires only one public hearing.

Council Member Heather Ingvalson urged retaining two public hearings, saying a second hearing does not greatly delay development and provides extra transparency. Council Member Mike Rhymer moved for first reading; Council Member Victor Phillips moved for second reading. Phillips also moved an amendment to the ordinance, seconded by Jack Howard. The roll-call vote was Mike Rhymer–AYE; Gary Miller–AYE; Victor Phillips–AYE; Heather Ingvalson–NAY; Jack Howard–AYE; Brian Pender–AYE; Randy Morse–AYE. The motion carried with six AYE and one NAY.

The ordinance change directs that zoning changes receive a public hearing at the Planning and Zoning Board and that the board's recommendation will be presented to the council; it removes the council-level public hearing requirement. City Attorney Mary Eftink-Boner described the amendment as aligning local procedure with state statute.

Supporters said the change streamlines the process by concentrating the formal hearing at the Planning and Zoning Board, while opponents said an additional council hearing provides a public forum and greater transparency. The council adopted the ordinance after the amendment and roll-call vote.

The council's next regular meeting is scheduled for Jan. 20, 2026.