Pictured: Marty Danzer (right) details his and other residents’ concerns over the 28E zoning agreement to the board of supervisors during the June 24, 2024 meeting.
The Carroll County Board of Supervisors signaled its intent to update the two-mile zoning agreement surrounding the City of Carroll. However, what those adjustments look like is still to be determined. Since 1984, the City of Carroll has managed zoning, building permits, and inspections in the two miles surrounding the community, but residents who live outside of city limits and are still subject to Carroll’s zoning regulations have become dissatisfied with the arrangement. One of those residents, Marty Danzer, who previously served on the board of supervisors, spoke for the 30 or so people in attendance at this (Monday) morning’s meeting.
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Under current regulations, the county requires building permits for structures or additions that are 10 ft. by 10 ft. or larger, and residents are directed to the City of Carroll if they reside within the two-mile limit. Most zoning issues are resolved with little, if any, issues, but a dispute last year between the City of Carroll and the Wernimont family northeast of town over an ag-related production facility brought this issue to the forefront. The residents argue they are subject to regulation by a government they have no say in electing and have little recourse to appeal an unfavorable decision by the council. The board is sympathetic to the residents’ concerns but didn’t want to make any changes on a knee-jerk reaction. District 2 Supervisor Mike Andersen suggested a joint “appeals” board between the city and county.
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Board Chair Stephanie Hausman also sees the need for change and proposes shortening the zoning limit from two miles to one with more county input.
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District 3 Supervisor Gene Meiners says the zoning area serves an essential purpose but is open to updating the agreement.
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Asst. County Attorney Curt Steger told the supervisors the zoning regulations can be changed, but it can’t be done unilaterally. Any adjustments must be made in conjunction with the City of Carroll. City Manager Aaron Kooiker, who was at Monday’s meeting, indicated the city is willing to work with the supervisors to find a suitable solution. No action was taken during Monday’s meeting, but the city and county are planning to meet in the near future to discuss changes further. Video from Monday’s meeting is included with this story on our website.
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