City-county planning

To many Cape Girardeau County residents, the words "planning" and "meet city codes" sounds like zoning. And county residents, on more than one occasion, have expressed with their votes their dislike of planning and zoning proposals. Cape Girardeau would like to meet developers halfway on subdivisions near the city -- subdivisions that are likely to be annexed in the future.

Under state law, Cape Girardeau has the authority to impose planning and zoning regulations up to two miles beyond the city limits. But, knowing the sentiment about P&Z in the county, the city is a taking a cautious and limited approach. The city's planning and zoning commission has put together a planning proposal that would apply only to subdivisions of four or more lots that have public improvements such as streets, sewers and water lines.

If the city council agrees to include these planning concepts in its comprehensive plan -- which also includes transportation projects, business development and beautification initiatives, the Cape Girardeau County Commission would have to hold a public hearing before the planning regulations go into effect. City and county officials have met to discuss the idea. As expected, the commissioners have had lots of questions and some reservations that reflect the sensitivity to the issue in the county.

Throughout this process, the public is being given ample opportunity to provide input. There also is a deliberate effort not to rush into anything, which is good for everyone who wants to have a say.

Jackson has taken a slightly different approach. Its policy requires subdivisions to meet all city codes and regulations before it can be annexed. Cape Girardeau's effort results in pretty much the same thing, only providing city input in subdivision development near the city as it occurs.

The public's input is important in this process, and it appears both the city and county are committed to giving everyone an opportunity to be fully heard.