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Builders Sway Legislators, Push for Further SPRAWLBURBIA

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TAFT WON'T SIGN ZONING BILL BUT WILL LET IT BECOME LAW
Published: Sunday, February 27, 2005
NEWS 06C
Associated Press
A bill that restricts how much say counties and townships have in where new housing is built will become law without Gov. Bob Taft's signature, his office said Friday.

Organizations representing townships and counties, along with environmental groups, had urged Taft to veto the bill, which becomes law May 26. They argued it would hurt government's ability to control unsightly sprawl.


The bill grants townships and counties zoning authority for landscaping and architectural design. It also allows charter-school students to take part in extracurricular activities in the public-school systems.

"I support the original purpose of this bill and do not believe that it should be delayed,'' Taft said. "However, I have serious reservations about an amendment that eliminates increased county and township zoning authority, and that is why I am allowing this bill to go into law without my signature.''

The legislature, acting at the urging of home builders, approved the bill Dec. 8, only 34 days after a new law gave local officials more control over residential construction.

Home builders and developers objected to language in the original bill. According to it, townships' and counties' powers to regulate zoning for new housing in unincorporated areas would be expanded from health and safety issues to include the "public convenience, comfort, prosperity or general welfare.'' Cities and villages already have such zoning authority.

The House added the restrictive language, and the Senate went along with the change.

Jack Shaner, a lobbyist for the Ohio Environmental Council, said Taft should have vetoed the bill because it robs counties and townships of the ability to decide what is in their best interests. The council fears home construction near creeks and wetlands will produce environmentally harmful runoff.

"It's a real shame that Gov. Taft couldn't find his veto pen,'' Shaner said. "Township trustees and county commissioners better light a candle, because local control doesn't have a prayer at the Statehouse.''

Taft said legislative leaders have assured him that they are willing to reconsider the matter.

"I urge the General Assembly to reintroduce this issue in a manner that will foster an open and robust dialogue that will lead to a reasonable solution that addresses the concerns of all affected parties,'' he said.

County and Townships Lose zoning power

The Columbus Dispatch