Tensions are rising ahead of a public hearing this Thursday on a proposed zoning ordinance that has drawn sharp criticism from members of the legal and development communities.
Local attorney John Everett submitted a letter to several Washington County Justices of the Peace, urging them to oppose the ordinance. He argued that the measure is deeply flawed, overly complex, and consolidates too much power in the hands of the County Judge, Patrick Deakins.
“It is so long and complicated that, in my view at least, it is virtually incomprehensible except, perhaps, to a civil engineer,” Everett wrote.
He also criticized the ordinance for bypassing the traditional planning process. The measure did not originate from the county’s Planning Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment, but was instead drafted solely by the executive branch.
“The proposed ordinance gives enormous power to the county judge,” Everett warned. “All of you might rightfully choose to resign and let the county judge be a one-man decision maker.”
While acknowledging that zoning reform may be warranted, Everett concluded that this particular proposal is not the right path forward and could set the county up for confusion and costly legal disputes.
The public hearing is scheduled for Thursday at 5 p.m. at the Washington County Courthouse.
ICYMI:
Embarrassing Power Grab by County Judge
WATCH: Former Planning Board Member: On Proposed Zoning Ordinance: “This is government overreach at the highest level”
WATCH: Will NWA County’s Proposed Zoning Act Limit Property Rights?
