By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
During the regular Oct. 29 meeting of the Guthrie County Board of Supervisors, the supervisors heard a request to appeal the zoning administrator’s decision for a building permit at 3276 268th St. in Stuart.
The requestor, identified as Mr. Bagby, explained that he would like to build a small house and six cabins for the purpose of a nonprofit religious 501(c)3 community on the land. He said it would not be considered a church but a ministry.
Region XII Zoning Administrator Chris Whitaker explained that, unfortunately, there simply is not an appropriate and legal way to approve the request.
“The issue is the small cabins, the community or retreat center, and a number of other things that Mr. Bagby has proposed…none of which are permitted uses, accessory uses or conditional uses in the Ag district in the Guthrie County Zoning Ordinance,” Whitaker said.
Whitaker added that rezoning one particular parcel of land is generally not considered proper, and he cautioned the supervisors about doing so.
The supervisors voted unanimously to accept Whitaker’s recommendation.
A citizen mentioned there will be an open house, presented by Summit Carbon Solution, for the public to learn more about CO2 safety and transportation, Nov. 6 at Barnett Library in Guthrie Center from 5-7 p.m.
County Treasurer Brenda Campbell informed the supervisors about a request to suspend taxes for Parcel 0000996001. She explained that the homeowner is dealing with significant medical challenges, and there have been similar tax suspensions in the past for similar situations. She said if granted, the taxes would be suspended until the home is sold.
Supervisor Maggie Armstrong cautioned against making a snap decision and said she feels more information is needed about this entire process.
“I can make assumptions to get there, but I don’t think that’s fair to either party. I just want to be very mindful. I would make a motion to table this for now,” Armstrong said.
The supervisors voted to table the matter.
County Engineer Josh Sebern gave an update, including the annual review of the weed commissioner’s report. The supervisors approved reappointing Tim Masters as the county’s weed commissioner.
Supervisor Mike Dickson asked the supervisors to consider approving the county to work with Ahlers & Cooney to draft a Hazardous Pipeline Ordinance. Supervisor Brian Johnson said it seems clear that the Iowa Utility Commission has authority in this area, so any such ordinance by a county would likely be ineffective. Armstrong suggested seeking more clarification on whether the county has any leeway in this area.
The supervisors previously voted to cancel the Nov. 5 meeting due to Election Day. Therefore, the next regular meeting of the supervisors will be Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 9 a.m. The public is welcome to attend in person or via remote technology. To join remotely, call 323-792-6123, then use meeting code 547029216#.