Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Keokuk Board Sides With Neighbors

Keokuk’s Planning and Zoning Commission opposes a proposed business expansion.

Lexington Square needs a special use permit from the city to add a roughly 10,000 square foot addition to its complex.

The goal is to provide more private rooms for residents of the nursing home on Keokuk’s north side.

Many residents who live near the complex oppose the expansion because proposed increases in water drainage, traffic, noise, and overhead lights.

The planning commission is recommending the city’s Board of Adjustment NOT issue the special use permit.

Community Development Director Pam Broomhall says that is one piece of information the Board will consider in making its decision.

“(The Board) does not have to take the Planning and Zoning Commission’s recommendation,” says Broomhall.  “Normally, they do, but that is not something they have to do.”

Broomhall says the Board will base its decision on several criteria.

The list includes the expansion’s impact on traffic patterns, public health and safety and the neighborhood in general.

Broomhall says the Board of Adjustment’s decision is final, though it can be appealed to the Keokuk City Council and/or to District Court.

The board meets Wednesday afternoon at 4:15 in City Hall.

Jason Parrott is a former reporter at Tri States Public Radio.