MASON CITY – At a public hearing at City Hall in Mason City yesterday, the Mason City Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for a Mason City council member who built two garages that violates city code.
Second Ward Council member Travis Hickey already built his garages, located at 920 N. Fillmore despite zoning ordinances limiting ‘accessory buildings’ (in this case, a garage) to 1,200 square feet.
Hickey was at the public hearing seeking a conditional use permit so that he would not have to alter or tear down his new structure, which some of his neighbors have objected to. His garage is 1,920 square feet in size, well above the 1,200 square feet allowable by law for accessory buildings.
Despite concerns from the board that they were “opening a can of worms” the issue was passed by the board after a short discussion. Some neighbors did attend and voice opposition, and only 3 of the 4 board members showed up to vote (there are 5 board positions, one is vacant).
One board member made a point to make it clear that Mr. Hickey received no special treatment due to his position on the Council.
To achieve a zoning adjustment, a citizen must meet five criteria, get a hearing with the Mason City Zoning Board of Adjustment and request a Conditional Use permit, pursuant to Title 12-10-4 of the municipal code (a zoning ordinance).
For more clarification on the five points, watch the video of the hearing as City Planner Tricia Sandahl explains to the board four of the five conditions that must be met in order to get approval of the Conditional Use permit or read the actual zoning ordinance at the following link. It lists the five criteria that must be met in order to be granted a conditional use permit. Go to page 35, look at section 12-5-3, part D.
Read the ordinance here.
It is unlawful to build an out of code structure and then later seek approval from the board.
Watch video of the hearing:
