Jackson to consider changes for duplexes

JACKSON, Mo. -- Proposed amendments to the city's zoning code would make it possible for developers to use more of their land when building attached single-family dwellings and would make it possible to own half a duplex by creating zero setbacks on side lots.

The proposals, discussed in a public hearing before the Jackson Board of Aldermen Monday night, would apply to any attached single-family dwelling, public works director Rodney Bollinger said, from duplexes to townhouses with multiple units.

The proposed amendments to the city's zoning code also would significantly reduce lot sizes and frontage requirements for these buildings. Outside units would have minimum lot sizes of 5,000 square feet and frontage requirements of 40 feet. Currently, duplexes have lot-size requirements of 10,000 square feet with 75 feet of frontage.

The change, which has been proposed by developers and two members of the Board of Aldermen, would enable developers to make better use of their land, city officials say. Attached single-family buildings currently must have 16 feet of side setback between buildings. The proposal would allow buildings on two different lots to share a common side wall. Buildings on parallel streets could share a common rear wall.

The change is viewed as a boon to anyone who wants to own part of an attached single-family building but doesn't want to be a landlord. It is a situation particularly beneficial to elderly people, supporters say.

"It doesn't cost any money and it will benefit the senior citizen," said Howard Alexander, a real estate agent representing developers.

In other business, the board approved a contract with the Federal Emergency Management Agency that will result in a digital map of the city's flood plain, which extends a mile beyond the city limits. The map will replace the hand-drawn version currently in use.

FEMA is providing a $40,000 grant to pay for the mapping project, which is being done by a Cape Girardeau County firm, Koehler Engineering and Surveying.

City engineer Dan Triller said the city has received $180,000 in grants for the flood plain mapping project since joining the program in 1978. The city's participation in the program, enables property owners to buy flood insurance, Triller said.

sblackwell@semissourian.com

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