Pocahontas Village Board decides to put renaming of park on ballot

By Rebecca Sponsler, Advocate Staff

At the May 20 meeting of the Pocahontas Village Board, they discussed changing the name of Gretchen Wilson Park back to American Legion Park. After some discussion and input from the public, the board passed a motion to put the measure on the ballot in November and let the people decide.

At the beginning of the meeting, two representatives from LOCiS were present to discuss some new software for the village that they said would make payroll easier and more efficient, along with other tasks.

An ordinance amending ordinance 6-27-2022, in regards to increasing rates and charges for water and trash services, was passed. The rates had already been increased, this was the ordinance amending the rates.

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to recommend adding a requirement about fences, the village board voted in favor of this recommendation: “The R-3 zone is established to recognize areas proposed as future two-family or multiple-family dwellings must be a minimum of 600 sq foot. These suggested standards recognize the need to provide adequate space for building, open areas, and off-street parking.  All homes are restricted to a maximum capacity of 2 people per legal bedroom.

The R-4 zone is established to recognize areas presently existing or proposed extended stay rentals such as motels, hotels, and apartments less than 600 sq foot per residence/unit.  These suggested standards recognize the need to provide adequate space for buildings, open areas, and off-street parking.  All homes are restricted to a maximum capacity of 2 people per legal bedroom. There must be a fire wall for every 6 units as well as in between laundromats.”

The ZBA also recommended that the village board approve a new zoning class that would be 7 or more units. 

The board voted to purchase a body camera to be worn by the ordinance enforcement officer.