A Lexington zoning amendment is set to put the city in line with state law. City councilmembers discussed it during a Tuesday work session.
House Bill 443 passed last year and requires Kentucky cities to stick to objective standards when considering new development projects.
Some residents at the meeting expressed concern the new regulations would take away the opportunity for public input. Walt Gaffield was among the Lexington residents who spoke during a public comment period.
“Removing public engagement is another step away from democracy, and I don't think any of you favor that. Two, House Bill 443, is oriented toward small, rural counties that lack serious, professional planning. Lexington simply has a different history than that," Gaffield said.
Councilmembers say they plan to keep it a priority. Councilmember James Brown proposed a change to the amendment that would require developers to post signage and contact info at development sites, and require public comment time for projects that quickly make it through the new process.
“Currently there's no notification process and there is no opportunity for public input or engagement, but I think this amendment will allow for us to get useful feedback and information from folks in our neighborhoods to better inform future policies while these proposals are moving forward," Brown said.
Lexington expects to bring the city in compliance with state law starting in July.
