(PHOTO BY BRIANNA BALOGH / THE VILLAGE REPORTER)
DISTRICT DECISIONS … Pouring over the map, Mayor Pamela Clark, Village Administrator Blair Campbell, and Shawn Clark (from left) discuss district questions with zoning inspector Todd Burkholder.
By: Brianna Balogh
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Todd Burkholder, zoning inspector for Superior, Center, and Pulaski townships, attended the Holiday City Planning Commission meeting on July 10 to address several questions raised from their prior session.
The meeting was called to order at 5:33 p.m., with Village Administrator Blair Campbell, Mayor Pamela Clark, and Shawn Clark in attendance.
Mayor Clark initiated the discussion by expressing gratitude to Mr. Burkholder for his presence and willingness to clarify their unique zoning situation. She explained Holiday City’s distinctive position, where various districts are compact within a very small area.
Burkholder provided historical context, noting that Center Township’s zoning system, established nearly 30 years ago, became the blueprint for most surrounding townships. He demonstrated its extensive nature with a large binder of information.
A primary concern for the Planning Commission revolved around managing dual districts, where one parcel of land serves multiple purposes.
Burkholder clarified the available options, advising that the most effective approach would be to split such districts.
For instance, if a property contained a home, the area around the residence would be zoned as residential, while any other portion of the parcel could be designated as agricultural.
Burkholder further elaborated that an agricultural zoning designation provides a strong base, as agricultural land in Ohio is far less regulated.
This offers property owners significant flexibility in land utilization, extending beyond traditional farming and allowing for the most “wiggle room.”
Regarding future planning, Burkholder advised that a specific district zoned as agricultural can be rezoned if needed.
The property owner would submit a proposal to the zoning commission, which would then approve or deny the rezoning request for that parcel.
He also explained that an appeal could be filed, with the appeal decision being final and capable of altering zoning rules. Burkholder assured the commission that multiple options exist for future development.
Mayor Clark sought to clarify a few specific areas. Shawn Clark pointed out a particular large parcel containing a strip of houses on a map.
Burkholder confirmed that the area immediately surrounding the homes would be residential, with the remaining portion zoned agricultural.
Several other similar parcels were then examined by the commission on the map and determined to be suitable for similar split designations.
While explaining the different uses between agricultural and residential zones, Burkholder made sure to address commercial businesses operating within a home.
He highlighted various special conditional use exceptions, citing examples like a mechanic business or a daycare operating from a residence.
While not an exhaustive list, the examples illustrate the types of conditional uses typically considered and permitted, with others potentially brought to the zoning committee for approval.
The discussion also touched upon districts where the village itself is the property owner. Burkholder advised seeking legal counsel for these situations, lightheartedly noting that council members cannot simply approve their own rezoning requests.
Beyond zoning specifics, Burkholder offered other vital information. He guided the board through the process of zoning approvals, explaining that proposed districts require a public meeting where residents can voice their opinions.
He also provided information on health department requirements for building a home and various frontage requirements across different districts, providing copies of these documents and the previously discussed conditional use permits.
Before adjournment, Burkholder ensured there were no further questions. The commission unanimously thanked him again for his time, agreeing that his visit provided much-needed clarity and a clear direction for their continued work.
The meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m., with Campbell motioning for adjournment.