Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Stormwater And Erosion Code topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Kearney residents ask for more review and clarification during stormwater code public hearing
Summary
At a June 8 Planning and Zoning Commission public hearing, residents raised concerns about proposed erosion, sediment and stormwater chapters—asking for more review time, clearer definitions and how on-site inspection would be staffed; staff agreed to meet with commenters this week.
City of Kearney planning staff presented proposed new chapters to the Municipal Code creating Chapter 236 (Erosion and Sediment Control) and Chapter 237 (Illicit Discharge and Connection to Stormwater) during a June 8 public hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission.
The ordinance language is intended to establish local regulatory standards and enforcement mechanisms to protect stormwater quality and the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4), staff said. Because the proposals are not part of the zoning ordinance or subdivision regulations, Commission action was not required; the hearing provided an opportunity for public comment.
Several members of the public spoke about aspects of the draft. Jim Robertson, a public commenter, said he "received an email Friday and has had little time to review before the meeting" and asked for an opportunity to meet with staff to discuss the issues. Chris Shipley told commissioners his chief concern was how an on-site inspector requirement would be staffed and enforced; he said he believed a workable plan could be found but wanted clarity on inspection logistics. Travis Holthouse highlighted problems with the definitions section and provided examples of wording he found confusing. Matt Iway said he received the packet late and asked for clarification on provisions addressing mud tracking from construction sites.
City staff responded that Commission action was not needed and that staff would follow up. According to the meeting record, staff agreed to schedule a meeting with interested parties this week for joint discussions to review the draft and clarify definitions and enforcement details.
No formal motion or vote on the chapters was recorded at the meeting. The public comment and staff follow-up will inform any further edits before the City proceeds with formal adoption steps or brings the ordinance to the Board of Aldermen as appropriate.
