Here is a copy of the proposed zoning resolution from Allen Township’s most recent (and unsuccessful) attempt to enact zoning in the early 2000s. This is being used by the township as part of its current zoning discussions.
The Township Zoning Commission met in a regular meeting. They discussed zoning for residential properties. They eliminated the R2 district from the prior ordinance. There was a significant discussion about lot size, house size, and setbacks.
The Zoning Commission met it a regular meeting to begin discussing the proposed ordinance. They worked on the definitions. Significant time was spent on the definition of building. They briefly took public comments.
Meeting Summary: The Allen Township Trustees met for a regular meeting. They approved minutes and payables. They approved a road project design. They received regular reports. They approved up to $20,000 for a hole repair due to a tile issue. They then went into executive session to discuss litigation. They came back out and were informed that the petition for zoning had been challenged. They approved a zoning resolution that was modified to say that regardless of the petition determination they were using their authority to approve beginning the zoning process (without any debate or discussion). They then appointed a five-member zoning commission (without any debate or discussion). When questioned about how the five members were selected, they were unable to articulate a clear answer other than “we decided”. Public comments were accepted. The meeting was adjourned.
Editorial Commentary: The E Allen has no idea what happened at the first Zoning Commission meeting. We were physically present. We were recording. We were 10 feet away. But, the newly appointed zoning commission members employed tactics making it nearly impossible to discern what was said. The commission clearly coordinated with supporters in the room to block the camera and to keep the room at nearly 80dB for an hour so they could hide their deliberations from the public.
Residents deserve to observe the public process that decides how their land can be used. Public meetings should not happen at 80dB. We are not even sure when their next meeting is because it was so hard to hear (again, from 10 feet away). We encourage you to try to watch the video for yourselves.