04-18-1991 Workshop Session of La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Page 13 of 13 The Zoning Permit is the means for insuring that a prospective business is moving into an appropriately zoned area. utility connections~ specifically water and electrical services~ are the key to this program. Neither H.L.&P. nor the City's Revenue Collections office will connect any nonresidential utility service without first receiving an authorization from the Code Enforcement Division. Code Enforcement will not authorize connection until a Zoning Permit has been approved and issued. Although the majority of Zoning Permits issued do not involve the issuance of any other permits or licenses, this is not always the case. While Section 11-303 (pgs 95-96) clearly spells out the relationship between Building and Zoning Permits, the relationships to other types of permits and licenses are not addressed. Examples of other permits and licenses are Food and Health Permits (County), Beer and Wine Licenses (City), Mixed Beverage (state) and Industrial Waste Permits (City). Presently, Zoning Permits are issued based solely on Zoning considerations and without regard to these other licenses. It should be noted however, that staff does advise applicants of other permit requirements which need to be met. A question has been raised regarding the type of relationship that should exist between zoning and other permits. The purpose of this discussion is to seek guidance from the Commission on this matter with a goal of making the Zoning Ordinance more enforceable. Another subject for consideration is the revocation of Zoning Permits. From time to time a problem arises due to a business violating the terms of its Zoning Permit. In situations where the violation becomes chronic~ forfeiture of a business' right to continue may provide the only solution. There is presently no procedure established for the revocation of a Zoning Permit. A suggested procedure is as follows: I ) Hold hearing to be chaired by appointed Examiner. Hearing to be held as public Hearing examiner would decide issue testimony and facts presented. Hearing hearing. based on I I) Appeals if requested would be made to the Zoning Board of Adjustment. III) If the Zoning Permit is revoked, the City would seek injunctive relief. IV) Disconnection of utilities.