Monroe County Commission to Hold Public Hearing Regarding Proposed Ordinance Amendment

Monroe County Commission to Hold Public Hearing Regarding Proposed Ordinance Amendment

The Monroe County Commission has announced a public hearing to discuss a proposed amendment to a county ordinance. The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2026, at 6:00 PM, and will take place at the Monroe County Government Center, located at 123 Main Street in Local Area.

The proposed amendment pertains to changes in zoning regulations for properties located within the agricultural-residential (AR-1) district. Specifically, the amendment seeks to modify the setback requirements for accessory structures, such as sheds and detached garages, on lots smaller than one acre. Currently, the ordinance mandates a 10-foot setback from property lines for all accessory structures in AR-1 zones. The proposed change would reduce this requirement to 5 feet for lots under one acre, aiming to provide more flexibility for property owners with smaller parcels.

Commissioners stated that the amendment was brought forward after several residents expressed concerns about the current setback rules limiting their ability to utilize their property effectively. "We've heard from folks in areas like Willow Creek and Elmwood who have smaller lots and find the current 10-foot setback challenging when trying to add a shed or a small workshop," said Commissioner Jane Doe. "This proposed change is an effort to address those practical concerns while still maintaining neighborhood aesthetics and safety."

Residents are strongly encouraged to attend the public hearing to voice their opinions, ask questions, and provide feedback on the proposed changes. Written comments can also be submitted to the Monroe County Clerk's Office at the Government Center by 4:00 PM on April 28, 2026. All comments, both verbal and written, will be considered by the Commission before a final decision is made.

The full text of the proposed ordinance amendment is available for review at the Monroe County Clerk's Office during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It can also be accessed on the official Monroe County website under the 'Public Notices' section.