Open Space Ordinance Receives First Reading Approval

An ordinance that revises municipal code sections regarding open space was approved on first reading by the Sheridan City Council Monday night by a vote of 4 to 3. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

The ordinance, as it was proposed and ultimately approved by the Council on first reading, has open space requirements of 8 percent for R-1, 10 percent for R-2, 17 percent for R-3, and 10 percent for R-4. City Community Development Director Wade Sanner said the City Planning Commission, at their meeting two weeks ago, didn’t agree with the 17 percent open space requirement for R-3 despite their recommendation to the City Council for approval of the ordinance. City Councilman Aaron Linden addressed the Mayor and Council prior to the first reading vote.

Mayor Rich Bridger explained why he would be voting in favor of the ordinance.

Councilors Steve Brantz, Clint Beaver and Kristen Jennings voted against the ordinance, while Mayor Bridger and Councilors Linden, Shawn Day and Jacob Martin voted for first reading approval. The ordinance must be approved two more times before it takes effect.