Plan Commission Recommends Two Rezonings by City Council

Effingham City Plan Commission members Tuesday voted to recommend two rezonings by the City Council.

One project involves a produce stand at 1103 East Fayette Avenue. The property would be rezoned from multiple-dwelling district to limited office and retail district. The produce stand would be seasonal but would operate as often as produce is available. Kimberly Mills spoke on behalf of the project, which would involve the daughter of the property owner, William Myers, who would operate the stand as a school project.

The other rezoning is for 403 and 409 West Franklin Avenue. The lots are being proposed for rezoning from mutlple-dwelling district to general commercial district. Local insurance agent Brad Meinhart said the plan is to consolidate several Country Financial offices into one location. The building would front along Jefferson Avenue, with water retention and parking on the back of the property.

The Commission also recommended the granting of a special use permit for a utility station at 1310 West Fayette and 113 South Raney. The station would be located north of Comfort Suites.

Commission members also recommended a group of local individuals as stakeholders and a steering committee to work on the City's next Comprehensive Plan. The project is to take the next several months to complete and others will be invited into the process.