Cape P&Z changes sign policies

The Cape Girardeau Planning and Zoning Commission changed its rules and procedures Wednesday night so that a week before the commission's consideration, a yellow sign will be placed at any property that will be considered for a change in zoning or a special-use permit.

The big, yellow signs are placed at such properties to make the entire neighborhood aware of the issue, but they were only put up before the issue goes before the city council.

Councilman Jay Purcell addressed the issue at Monday night's council meeting, saying he was not aware that notice was not given before the commission's consideration. Purcell and Mayor Jay Knudtson both said they often vote in favor of the commission's recommendations based on the fact there was no opposition at commission meetings.

Currently, adjoining property owners are notified of the commission meetings by mail.

In other action, the commission approved two subdivision plats, Plat No. 1 of the record plat of the Spanish Street Condominiums and a record plat of the Davidson Subdivision.

Wednesday night was Thomas Holshouser's last meeting as a commissioner. He has served 15 years, but reached his term limit.

The commission will likely form a septic tank committee at next month's meeting. City planner Kent Bratton provided the commission with some material Wednesday night. The commissioners will review it and begin the process of creating a clear septic tank policy.