Baltimore Council schedules public hearing on removing lot-coverage limits after resident concerns

The Village of Baltimore placed an ordinance that would remove maximum lot-coverage limitations on a public hearing after discussion at the July 13 meeting.

Clerk/Moderator read the item as ordinance 2026-22, described in the record as "an ordinance to amend certain portions of part 12 planning and zoning code ... in order to delete the maximum lot coverage requirements," and listed Foreman as the sponsor. Council scheduled a public hearing for the ordinance two weeks from the meeting, with a recommendation to be prepared to discuss it at the next rules and safety meetings.

During public comment, resident John Dap (S9) told the council he opposed wholesale abolition of lot-coverage rules and urged alternatives such as different percentages by zone, variance processes, screening or other mitigation. "I think it's there for a purpose," Dap said, adding that small-property owners can be disproportionately affected if coverage limits are removed.

Council members acknowledged the concern and said planning and zoning will continue discussion; one councilor noted that any change would require a supermajority. The ordinance remains at second reading and will be the subject of the scheduled public hearing.

The council also listed three other items on second reading, including a resolution to request the amended certification to enforce the Ohio building code and ordinances to remove obsolete impact-fee references and to authorize a prisoner-housing contract with Fairfield County.