Chrissy Wimer, President of the Jefferson County Foundation, addresses the Ranson City Council.
The Ranson City Council is scheduled to have a final reading and vote on the ordinance to adopt the 2035 comprehensive plan at it’s regular meeting on April 9 2024 (7:00 pm, Ranson City Hall, 312 South Mildred St). The Council has also scheduled a public hearing and vote on a proposed update to the zoning ordanance at this April 9 meeting.
Residents may comment on the comprehensive plan in person at the public hearings or submit written comment in advance to the City Clerk at darmstrong@ransonwv.us (send email by April 4 to be included in meeting packet).
Concerns About Industrial Uses
During the February and March meetings, the Ranson City Council discussed concerns that the definition of “light industrial” that is referenced in the new comprehensive plan is not adequately spelled out in the Ranson’s zoning ordinance. The Council has held a first reading of an amendment to the zoning ordinance that is intended to address these concerns.
According to the Jefferson County Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides support and strategic guidance to address long-term issues facing Jefferson County, the update to the Ranson zoning ordinance significantly improves the protections around industrial activities in Ranson. While this Foundation has indicated it will continue to advocate for tighter restrictions on industrial uses, it also says it supports the adoption of the zoning ordinance amendment according to the City’s timetable.
The Jefferson County Foundation has noted its concerns about the new comprehensive plan. These concerns are listed on the Foundation’s website.
[READ MORE: About the Ranson Comprehensive Plan]
By Staff Contributor