Plan commission tightens zoning for on-site electric generation, sends change to Logansport City Council

The Logansport Plan Commission voted June 8 to send an amendment to the city council that would restrict where companies can locate on‑site electric generation, aiming to steer power production away from residential and downtown commercial areas.

Planning staff member Erin told the commission the changes to Table A respond to a rise in non‑utility companies bringing in generation technologies — from gas-fired to solar-to-electric systems — and that the ordinance currently allowed some of those uses as‑of‑right in commercial and residential districts. Erin said the proposed amendments change several downtown and commercial zoning districts (identified at the meeting as B2, B3, B4 and LGC) from permitted or special‑exception status to “not allowed,” which would require proponents to seek a use variance or otherwise be routed to industrial or agricultural zones.

“This is proactive language so we have a process to review any of these uses if they come forward,” Erin said, explaining the change would preserve a review path in industrial areas while removing as‑of‑right permitting in neighborhoods and downtown.

During public comment, James Khan of 913 Plum Street questioned who would receive tax revenues from such facilities and raised environmental concerns based on previous industrial activity. Erin answered that the amendments are not tied to a current application and that staff would provide specific tax‑revenue information later in the council process.

Commissioners approved the amendment by roll call, with a seven‑yes, zero‑no vote. The commission’s action is a recommendation; the city council will take final action on the amendment.

Next steps: The amendment (File 2604) will be transmitted to the Logansport City Council for public hearings and final decision.