The Johnson County Planning and Zoning Commission will discuss the final draft of the Johnson County Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) at its next meeting and potentially make a recommendation regarding adoption to the Johnson County Board of Supervisors. The public is welcome to attend the hearing, which takes place at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, in the second-floor boardroom of the Johnson County Administration Building (913 S. Dubuque Street, Iowa City).
Routine business (including rezoning and subdivision applications) will precede the UDO discussion. If needed, a second meeting will be held by the commission before making a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors.
The UDO includes the zoning code, subdivision regulations and building code to regulate development and use of land in the unincorporated areas of the county. The UDO also regulates soil and water conservation, floodplain development and renewable energy production, among other uses. The updated ordinance aims to balance growth with preservation of agricultural and environmentally sensitive areas; provide opportunities for local food and agritourism; and protect public health, safety and welfare.
An electronic copy of the draft UDO, labeled “Johnson County UDO – Public Hearing Draft” is available online. A paper copy is available for viewing at the Planning, Development and Sustainability Department on the second floor of the Johnson County Administration Building at the address previously listed.
The update process followed the May 2018 adoption of the Johnson County 2018 Comprehensive Plan and has taken 15 months so far. Stakeholders have provided input, and there has been ongoing review of the draft by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Board of Supervisors.
For more information, contact Josh Busard, director of Planning, Development and Sustainability, at 319-356-6083 or jbusard@co.johnson.ia.us.
