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Board approves multiple rezoning, annexation and easement measures, including revised rezoning at 103 S. Holly Street
Summary
The board approved a package of zoning, annexation and easement measures on second readings, including amending ordinance 25-28 to rezone lots 6 and 7 at 103 S. Holly Street (JBU-related), rezoning portions of Simon Sager Avenue and Progress Avenue, a 176-acre annexation along AR-59, and a drainage-easement vacation. Several votes recorded abstentions where directors had conflicts.
The Siloam Springs Board of Directors on Sept. 16 voted on a series of land-use and property measures covering rezoning requests, an annexation and an easement vacation.
Key outcomes
- Ordinance 25-28 (103 South Holly Street): Staff presented a proposed rezoning from R2 to GI for property around 103 S. Holly Street. After the applicant (John Brown University) asked to amend the legal description the board agreed to limit the revised rezoning to lots 6 and 7 only, suspending rules to allow first/second/third readings and adopting the ordinance as amended. John Brown University representatives told the board that board action by January would help the university house additional students.
- Ordinance 25-29 (400-500 block of N. Simon Sager Ave): The board approved rezoning about 22.38 acres from A1 to C2 and approved a future land use map amendment to regional commercial; staff reported no public opposition.
- Ordinance 25-30 (Annexation along AR-59 and Bill Young Road): The board accepted annexation of roughly 176 acres, assigning zoning (A1 to the south, R2 to the remainder) and amending the future land use map; developer representatives asked that the board consider second and third readings tonight but the board placed the item on second reading per procedure.
- Ordinance 25-31 (1113 E. Ashley St.): The board approved vacating an unneeded drainage easement after staff said the easement had been relocated during development.
- Ordinance 25-32 (400 block N. Progress Ave): The board placed this rezoning on second reading and approved the associated map amendment.
Vote notes and recusals: Several roll calls included abstentions where directors had conflicts (for example a director who is a university employee abstained on the John Brown University-related vote). Where abstentions occurred staff proceeded with the remaining affirmative votes to adopt the ordinances.
Why it matters: The measures affect future development patterns, potential student housing near local university property, and the citycomprehensive plan's future land use map. Directors repeatedly urged developers to coordinate with neighbors and review the city2040 plan, and staff confirmed requirements for stormwater and coordination with adjacent public improvements.
Next steps: The adopted ordinances will be implemented as amended; staff will continue to work with applicants on development review, stormwater requirements and coordination with public infrastructure improvements.
