Vandalia City Council Discusses Zoning

DEBORAH SIMCOX
Correspondent
An Ordinance amending the City of Vandalia Zoning District Map was up for discussion in New Business at Monday’s Vandalia City Council meeting. The zoning change was regarding a lot on Gallatin Street west of the former Pentecostal Church and was represented by the potential buyer Shane Bowen. It previously housed an oil company, but now has several vehicles on the lot. Shane Bowen was requesting the current zoning of “Residential” to be changed to “Light Industrial.” He said that his intention is to create a storage facility and assured the Board that there “won’t be anything outside.” Shane Bowen’s plan is to be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only. Alderman Bob Bowen said that he and the City had expended a good deal of effort “cleaning up the West end” of town and he does not want to see more houses that “no one lives in” and lots that are covered with multiple vehicles. Several Board Members questioned Shane Bowen about a written description and drawn images of the business, which he did not have ready. The majority of the Board expressed the necessity for a firmer written detailed narrative before they would consider a zoning change. They requested that Shane Bowen bring these to the next meeting of the City Council on December 16.
The other item in New Business was a presentation by Rochelle Addison to be given regarding the former Baptist Church building downtown. Because she was running late, this item was moved to the end of the meeting, at which time Bob Culbertson answered questions from Board Members since Addison was unable to get to the meeting. Addison’s plan, if she buys the building, is to establish another Women’s Work Release Program called “New Journey Network” and would be modeled after another program in Johnson City, Illinois, which Addison developed. This facility would provide a place for the women to sleep, eat, and prepare for work. The women would already have employment prior to being accepted into the program. Alderman Kenny Lewey expressed the opinion that the constituents he represents would not want the facility in their neighborhood.
In Unfinished Business, the Lake Dam is waiting for one more bid. The Bicycles Ordinance was discussed and Attorney for the City Ryan Connor presented his knowledge of the laws regarding electric and gas powered bicycles. This item was removed for more discussion. City Administrator LaTisha Paslay is seeking more bids regarding the Tourism Center Digital Sign.
Mayor Ricky Gottmann reported that there are still many unclaimed items from the old Library. City Administrator LaTisha Paslay reported that the “Wreaths Across America” ceremony will be Saturday, December 14 at 9 a.m. and will meet prior to that at 8:45 a.m. at Fairlawn cemetery. Building & Grounds Chair Andy Lester reported that a 10 X 20 mural is to be created on the west wall of the Interpretive Center. Lake Chair Russ Stunkel reported that Lake Manager Scott Workman is working on the holding tank for his unit. Railroad, Economic Development & Tourism Chair Ken Hubler reported that a meeting regarding development of the Business District will be held January 6 at 5 p.m. at the City Hall. Personnel, Finance & Insurance Chair Bob Bowen reported that there are potentially three or four interviews to be set up for the position of the Economic Development Director.
The next regular Vandalia City Council meeting will be Monday, December 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the City Hall. The Public is welcome to attend.