The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council has made changes to its zoning ordinances that would put it in line with state law.
State House Bill 443 passed last year and requires Kentucky cities to stick to objective standards when considering new development projects.
City officials interpreted the bill as saying it would take away the opportunity for subjective public input before projects are approved. The original version of the zoning amendment removed the option for public comment entirely.
The final version of the amendment includes time for public comment after plans have been approved. It would also require developers to notify neighbors when a nearby development plan is filed.
The changes only affect development plans that don’t require zone changes. Development projects that request a change are still required to go through public hearings normally.
