Township of Chester

The meeting focused extensively on reviewing and discussing potential cleanup amendments to the Zoning Resolution, specifically Articles 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, and 13. Key discussion points involved accessory building size limits, where the maximum size of 1,280 sq ft for lots under one acre was debated, and proposals for maximum size based on acreage (960 sq ft per acre up to 9,600 sq ft total). The commission also discussed regulating carports, which are currently not allowed. Significant time was spent on height restrictions, particularly addressing the difficulty residents and contractors have with the current median height calculation, and proposing a standardized 30' peak height instead. Other topics included the enforceability of Article 6 regarding Revocation of Conditional Use Permits, the potential removal of outdated Article 302.0 submission requirements to ODOT, and adding language to Article 10 to allow adjacent lots to be treated as one for setback purposes. The next steps involve preparing potential amendment language for review on March 4th.

The agenda for the Chester Township Zoning Commission meeting includes discussions on amending the Bylaws to remove the requirement for an annual Secretary Appointment, an update on the Land Use Plan by Greg Mersol, and planning for an upcoming public forum on the Land Use Plan. Old Business involves a continuation of the conversation regarding Accessory Buildings. The Zoning Inspector is scheduled to provide an update, including a second pass review of several Articles of the Zoning Resolution (Articles 1, 3, 4, 10, and 13). New Business features a presentation by Matt Spetrino. Correspondence received, including a report on a Mining Operation from the Planning Commission, will also be addressed.

The committee meeting focused on receiving subcommittee reports related to the Land Use Plan. The Property Maintenance subcommittee found that while most residents felt properties were well-maintained, support for a Property Maintenance code was slim, with a strong preference for education as the first line of approach. The Commercial and Industrial subcommittee noted weak communication and discussed granting more flexibility to the Zoning Inspector due to technological changes outpacing the Zoning Resolution (ZR). The Zoning subcommittee reported on a systematic review of the ZR, addressing issues like Conditional Uses and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The Housing subcommittee discussed ADUs and 55+ housing options, noting community feedback and concerns about population decline affecting schools. General discussion centered on overcoming the status quo, the aging population demographics, and considering zoning changes to allow for rebuilding non-conforming homes and potentially establishing a mixed-use zone near the town center to motivate private investment. The committee also outlined the design and setup for a forthcoming Public Forum scheduled for March 31, 2026.

The key discussions centered on tabling the decision regarding the annual appointment of a secretary pending input from the Zoning Inspector. The Commission commenced a review and potential cleanup amendment process for select Articles of the Zoning Resolution (Articles 1, 3, 4, 10, 12, and 13), targeting March 18th for presenting potential changes to the Planning Commission. Items slated for near-future consideration include continuing the review of the Zoning Resolution, accessory building sizes, updating the definition section, determining structure height, and addressing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

Key discussions centered on zoning regulations and infrastructure planning. Topics included Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) responses regarding the widening of State Route 322, noting no scheduled improvements in the 15-year forecast and a decrease in daily traffic compared to two decades prior. There was a detailed discussion concerning commercial district setbacks, the need to ensure properties are buildable, requirements for parking, and potential alternative screening requirements instead of setbacks when abutting residential areas. The committee also addressed concerns about resident familiarity with zoning complexities, leading to the distribution of FAQ Sheet #2, and considered extending a survey over the holiday season.