Rising Sun schedules March 22 public hearing on zoning changes affecting about 15 parcels

The mayor and board of commissioners set a public hearing for Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at 7 p.m. at the Community Fire Company of Rising Sun (300 Joseph Biggs Memorial Highway) to accept public comment on two zoning measures.

Town Administrator described the notices for Ordinance 2022‑21, "Amending and Creating Zoning Districts," and Ordinance 2022‑22, "Comprehensive Rezoning Phase 1," saying the package proposes changes to existing zoning districts and would reclassify about 15 locations as recommended by the town’s 2019 comprehensive plan update. The hearing is intended to collect public input before the mayor and commissioners act.

Staff asked residents who wish to speak to notify staff by close of business Monday, March 21, and said copies of the ordinances are posted to the town website. The administrator also noted a specific special‑exception matter for Lots 6 and 7 in the Maple Heights development: the Planning Commission reviewed it and, after a Board of Appeals meeting, recommended granting a special exception to allow two residential homes, pending county stormwater questions that the applicant must address.

What happens next: The town will accept public comment at the March 22 hearing, and staff said they would be present to answer technical questions; the Board of Zoning Appeals and county stormwater must still clear any outstanding technical issues for particular permit cases.