CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman City Council President Jenny Folsom on Thursday said the council will not set public hearings on large rezoning requests until COVID-19 restrictions are relaxed, allowing for more access to the public.
Folsom’s statement, in full, is below:
“It has been brought to my attention that one or more zoning requests at the Cullman City Planning Commission on Monday, May 4, 2020, had numerous interested parties attending.
“Due to the limitations of the COVID-19 virus rules for the public gatherings, those attending were not allowed to enter the auditorium, and it was difficult to participate in the meeting. Because zoning issues are of great importance to the community, and although the council has not officially received the recommendation of the planning commission, I believe it is only just for all parties interested in these zoning requests have reasonable opportunities, as allowed by law, to attend and participate in a meaningful way.
“The current limitations for gatherings, due to COVID-19, hinder such participation. From what I understand, there were no traffic studies, traffic controls, building schedules, need assessments, or drainage studies for the downstream effect of the project presented, all of which the council will need to consider in any largescale zoning request.
“Therefore, the council will not set a public hearing on this issue until the COVID-19 rules allow better access for the public.”
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