Council opens first reading of zoning ordinance to standardize setbacks

Chair (S1) opened a public hearing and read the ordinance into the record as a first reading: “An ordinance of the City of Crooks, South Dakota amending the 2023 revised Crooks zoning regulation by amending chapter 5 R‑2.” The measure would apply the R‑1 setback pattern to other residential districts so side‑yard setback rules are consistent across zones.

Council member (S2) explained the effect in plain terms, saying, “This 1st reading is like the setbacks we have in R‑1. This is for all the other districts to do that too.” No members of the public testified for or against the ordinance during the hearing. With no testimony offered, the council advanced the ordinance as a first reading and scheduled further consideration at a later meeting for additional explanation and a possible second reading.

The ordinance affects local land‑use standards for residential lots; proponents say consistent setbacks simplify permitting and enforcement. The council did not adopt final language at this meeting — the item was at first reading only and will return for additional discussion, including technical clarifications from staff.