This Posty at Brown County Matters

8.21.2024 Agenda Commissioners (version 8/20-2024)

• • In addition to the agenda, the county requested an INDOT for a one-year extension concerning the re-opening of Indian Hill RR Crossing and Road.  Discussed at the end of the meeting.

AUDIO of the Meeting

• • SPOT Zoning.
    • The conversation starts at 3:09. Comments from Oppoenent start at 9:45.
    •  The request to approve general business zoning for a hotel in a residential area has been delayed. Commissioners have 90 days from Aug 7 to vote on the proposed change.
    • This example and discussion is the proverbial “canary in the coal mine.”  There are interests in the county that want to take advantage of every development opportunity possible.  In opposition, Brown County is a bedroom and retirement community where people choose to live for the peace, quiet, and beauty of the land.
    • The neighbors oppose it.  Commissioner Wolpert (who has lived on Lanham Ridge) appears to be supporting the change. Commissioner Pittman wants more information on the issues.  Ron Sanders is supportive of the arguments from the opponents.
    • One resident mentioned that if you change this property to commercial business, he could also request a change to build a hotel and estimate a significant increase in his property value. He was against the change but raised the point regarding the motivation for developments throughout the county,
    • Illegal SPOT Zoning.  SPOT Zoning that identifies a specific use is illegal under Indiana law.
    • A newer resident (25:30) in the area stated he moved here for peace and quiet and wants to keep things that way.  The case for change reflected the theme – Things change; get used to it … You are not going to get things your way.”
    • The county started the process of developing a new Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan identifies what residents want and do not want in terms of development, zoning, and quality of life. Zoning influences the economic base.  The discussions on the interests of development vs residents need to happen throughout the county.
• Traffic Volume and the Stop Light – North Entrance to the Park.  INDOT has rejected a stoplight in the past because of traffic volume. They also discussed adding a roundabout.  The fact that a stop light is being installed reflects the increased traffic volume in Brown County. Another stop light at 46/135 is probably not too far off.

Other:  

• • Aug 7, 2024. Commissioner Meeting Notes, copies of the SPOT Zoning petition