Tidbits from the Evansville Planning Commission Meeting-Wed, Nov 1

----The Planning Commission discussed the draft ordinance proposed to amend the section of the zoning code which limits reconstruction of non-conforming structures. The problem addressed here is the small non-standard older home that burns by fire. This amendment would allow 18 months for the home to be reconstructed on the same lot, and an extension of 18 months if necessary. This amendment will be subject to public hearing in December and will be sponsored by Ald Tom Cothard and Ald. John Sornson. The current code does not allow reconstruction and hence some insurance companies might not pay the settlement of the fire claim.

If you own an older home on a small lot in Evansville, be sure to let your alderman know that you support this ordinance amendment.

-----The planning commission discussed regulation of outdoor wood furnaces. There are many in Evansville now due to skyrocketing natural gas prices. Tim Schwecke, City Planner, went over what other communities are doing and possible areas of regulation. Ald. Cothad mentioned that Water and light is providing some rebates on purchase of these as an energy saving device and it makes little sense to make it too difficult for these folks with onorous regulation. The general consensus was that some rules about distance from lot line adjacent to a neighbor and possibly some rules on storage of fuel such as corn which might attract rodents. I believe a draft will be brought up next month for review.

-----There was some discussion of further regulation of banners and signs. However, some pictures were presented of the downtown in 1900 that show lots of signs and banners in a rich display of commerical activity. No alderman sponsor was ready to sponsor any further regulation at this time, so the matter died.

If you attended this meeting and would like to add to these notes, feel free to add your comments on the comment line.