01-16-1997 Public Hearing and Regular Meeting of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Planning & Zoning ~ • 2/20/97 #1197-001 Page 4 of 5 The following are questions from the applicant and answers to those questions: 1. Question from Ben Richie: "What can I do to stop the City from condemning all three buildings located on my property at 1701 South Broadway La Porte ? " • Answer: The City of La Porte has not condemned any of the buildings located at 1701 South Broadway. A condemnation could only occur if the buildings were endangering the public health, safety, or welfare of the general public. The applicant can continue to operate his business and even sell his property to someone to continue the same type of operation. The only issue that would need to address in the future is the 90 day abandonment section of the Zoning Ordinance. 2. Question from Ben Richie: "What can be done to have the zoning changed to Neighborhood Commercial ? " • Answer: The City of La Porte has accepted an application from Mr. Richie to have a public hearing for a zoning change. 3. Question from Ben Richie: "Why was the zoning changed without the City notifying the business owner of this change ? " • Answer: The City of La Porte did notify the Citizens of La Porte during its comprehensive planning process. The Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance was developed over a three plus years from 1983 to 1987. The City of La Porte held many public meetings during 1984 to 1987 in determining zoning districts. A massive public campaign with media coverage, neighborhood meetings, and business committees were held to develop a Comprehensive Plan for the future of La Porte. 4. Ouestion,from Ben Richie: "Why was the Zoning change made on only a few businesses? Why not all of Broadway (Odd 146) ? " • Answer: The zoning map for the entire City of La Porte was revised with an exhaustive and thorough review of future growth and development. All of Broadway (Old Hwy 146) as well as the rerst of the City was analyzed and assessed carefully as part of the City's Comprehensive Plan process. 5. Question from Ben Richie: "What authority does the members of the Old 146 Committee have that determines who can own and operate a business that has been established for more than 20 years. Does the Committee members work for a business? " • Answer: The Old Hwy 146 Committee does not have any authority over zoning regulations or who can own and operate a business.