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decision-making process and to keep local natural areas beautiful.
What's New in Elmwood?
Elmwood's New Zoning Ordinance: A Positive for the Community
In 2003, Elmwood voters turned down a proposed zoning ordinance by way of referendum vote. Since that set back the township has struggled to find a path forward, a way to bring the promise of the newly adopted (then) township master plan to life through the implementation of a new zoning ordinance designed to support it. The road has often been rocky (see "since 2003"), but perseverance and hard work have paid off. Once again, four years later, an ordinance has been deemed ready for public comment by the township planning commission, the first step in moving the ordinance to the board of trustees for adoption.The ordinance we'll all have a chance to comment on represents a positive for the community-a body of legislation that supports Elmwood's master plan, and so by definition the common interest, while providing flexibility and opportunity for all property owners in the township. Like the master plan, the proposed ordinance concentrates effectively on those positives identified by township residents. The overwhelming consensus identified in Elmwood is the community's desire to maintain the rural character of the township. Elmwood residents have been telling their government for years, in no uncertain terms, that what they want is basically what they already have. The community recognizes the real value provided by the township's as yet uncluttered and open country side. Township residents seem to understand that the value of their property will be enhanced as the years go by through the provision of thoughtful, well planned development that conserves the community's leading natural assets.
Other well articulated and documented community desires are specifically addressed through clear standards in the draft ordinance. These include measures intended to protect the environment and our water resources, measures that encourage the orderly expansion of neighborhoods and areas served by public services, and standards designed to encourage the retention of key agricultural lands.
Voters expressed a serious set of concerns in the 2003 referendum and zoning ordinance rejection. The ordinance that was proposed at that time seemed to seriously discount the degree to which the community really cared about the features that made their township "home". Since then the Township Board has directed significant budget resources in support of this ordinance. The Planning Commission has invested years of effort into working for a final document that works toward achieving the community's goals while respecting the rights of individuals. What has evolved represents a positive response to the concerns voiced by the community in 2003-a positive we can all take pride in having contributed to.
The provisions of this proposed ordinance will allow Elmwood to grow and prosper for years to come.
Visit our site dedicated to Elmwood zoning: www.elmwoodzoning.org