Zoning plan taking shape

BROWNSTOWN

Brownstown could have a zoning ordinance in place as early as next fall thanks in the part to the work of a Ball State University urban planning professor.

“I think we’re working with a very special person here,” Town Council member Ben Lewis said during the council’s meeting this past week at town hall.

Lewis was referring to professor Eric Kelly, who also is with Duncan Associates. That Muncie firm helps communities write land development regulations.

This past week, Kelly sent Lewis a proposal to put together land-development regulations for the town at the cost of $14,500.

“I was shocked it was that low,” Lewis said. “He told me he is keeping the cost low to show zoning is and can be simple.”

Previous efforts to establish zoning in Brownstown has failed to become a reality primarily because the cost has been prohibitive, Lewis said.

Lewis said he believes Kelly has taken a liking to Brownstown and wants to make a point by helping the town establish regulations for land use simply.

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