Staff reads new Iowa Code variance standard as council updates local ordinance

At the start of the meeting staff member Darren Bumgarner read changes in state law to the board. He summarized new language in Iowa Code sections 335.14 and 414.12 that, according to the staff reading, applies a new standard to "area, dimensional, or other numerical limitations" such as minimum lot size, setbacks, height, fencing, signage, and off-street parking. The board was informed the City Council is in the process of adding the same language to the Orleans zoning ordinance.

The staff reading was performed for the board's awareness; no immediate vote or implementation action was taken by the Zoning Board at the July 15 meeting. The citation on the record is Iowa Code §335.14 and §414.12, and the board heard that the changes may affect how future variance requests are assessed.