Cadiz Zoning Committee denies appeal in building height dispute

The Cadiz Zoning Committee met Sept. 29, to discuss an appeal submitted by Cadiz resident R. Kevin Jones. 

In this standing-room-only meeting, the public was invited to express concerns over the appeal, which sought permission for a structure on Jones’ property to exceed the allowed 15-foot height by seven feet, to 22 feet. The motion failed 2-2, with Sal Deluca and Jones abstaining. A majority vote is needed to pass. The appeal will now take another turn in which the resident must comply or file an appeal with the Harrison County Common Pleas Court.

Dale Edwards called the meeting to order. The committee is comprised of Deluca, Edwards, Chuck Harrah, Chuck Bizzari and Jones the mayor of Cadiz. Also in attendance was Zoning Administrator Brandon Ludwig. Anyone wishing to voice a concern was asked to sign in, thereby being allotted a five-minute uninterrupted statement. This, however, was not enforced, and the audience soon became loud and disrespectful.

Many concerns were voiced. A handful of people are directly affected by the building, and several wanted the ordinances enforced.

Edwards and Bizzari expressed concern over how the situation had progressed thus far, as the building is already erected. Jones provided appropriate legal documentation. Upon further questioning, it was revealed the zoning code enforcement officer position has not been filled. This officer would be responsible for investigating and resolving zoning violations to ensure properties comply with local laws. The officer would also inspect sites, respond to complaints, issue citations, process permit applications and educate the community about zoning ordinances.

“Somebody dropped the ball somewhere,” said Harrah.