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Planner proposes zoning text amendment to recognize observatories as passive recreation
Summary
Planning staff presented text amendment TX26007 to add observatories to the County's recreational facilities definition and allow special-permit flexibility for setbacks and acreage; staff reported nearly three dozen letters of support and a small number of opposition letters about traffic and large events.
George Wesselhoft, planner with Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning and Development Services, briefed the Board June 25 on zoning text amendment TX26007, requested by the Branch Oak Observatory to address an apparent gap in Lancaster County's permitted uses.
Wesselhoft said the amendment "would expand the definition of recreational facilities to include passive recreational uses such as observatories, bird watching, and nature walks," and would permit flexibility on setback and acreage requirements through the special-permit process so the Observatory could pursue zoning compliance for its five-acre property.
Wesselhoft explained the Observatory's site does not meet standard agricultural zoning requirements and that staff worked closely with the Observatory project team during the amendment drafting. Although not required, county staff provided notice to neighboring property owners; planning received nearly three dozen letters of support and a small number of opposition letters, which Wesselhoft said focused primarily on traffic and the prospect of large public events.
Chair Christa Yoakum thanked staff for working to keep the Observatory as a community asset while addressing zoning compliance. The briefing did not include a final Board action on the amendment; next steps would follow Planning and Development procedures for any formal application or public hearing.
