by Andrew Getty

In last week’s article in the Weekly Adirondack, a brief mention was made about the Town of Webb Code & Zoning Office celebrating the 50th anniversary of its Zoning Ordinance.

Well, on December 15th, after the regularly scheduled Planning Board meeting, the office of Code Enforcement will host a little party in recognition of the past 50 years. 

December 15th is the actual anniversary day.

We really would like anyone to come to the Planning Board meeting, and then hang around for some refreshments and conversation about whatever is on your mind.

Bring your stories and experiences about zoning; the good, the bad or the ugly; it all matters.

The understanding of how zoning works can vary so much from one person to another.

It is amazing the different conversations that are overheard sometimes in situations where other people have no idea these ears are close.

The interpretation of the regulations, enforcement policies and procedures, issuance of permits, the inspection process, the plan review process and other jobs directly related to the code office staff is sometimes really off.

Then move to the topics of the two different boards that deal with zoning matters; the Planning Board and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Many people just don’t understand what their function is.

They actually have very different roles, all of which is defined by New York State Law and Local Law.

Unless you are involved in the municipal industry of regulatory affairs, are experienced attorneys in municipal law or maybe work with different boards as part of your business… it is understandable that people just don’t understand.

This article was created almost ten years ago all in an attempt to help the public understand, to explain specific aspects of how zoning works, how the boards function, what rules apply to what.

It also seeks to help differentiate between local zoning and the State building and Fire Codes, which are administered through the same office.

Overall this article has been well received.

Often people come into the office with ideas of what they want on their property and start the conversation with “I read in your article…”

That’s great, knowledge and understanding is healthy. Not understanding leads to assumptions, and we all know what happens when we assume.

Anyway, if you can come to the Park Ave. building on December 15, sit through a short Planning Board meeting and then share a little community fellowship, please do.

You are encouraged to bring your stories, questions, suggestions or concerns, even in writing, so we can respond in due time.

If you can’t be here send in your comments.

Fifty years is a long time, and changes have happened through the years.

The Town of Webb is a great and strong small town. Would we be different today if zoning and land use regulations were never adopted? Absolutely.

Has it been smooth all the time, of course not. Are we better off because of zoning? We like to believe so.

Save the date December 15, 2015; 7:00 p.m.

50th Anniversary: Town of Webb Zoning Ordinance.

183 Park Avenue, Old Forge

Just another good reason to have a party… Right?