MF passes less restrictive ordinance amendments

November 20, 2012, 8:50 pm by Adam Troxtell

After about 18 months of tinkering and debate, the City of Marble Falls has passed a set of property, traffic and motor vehicle and nuisance ordinance amendments that officials hope will lead the charge for a cleaner town.

The amendments were passed unanimously by city council in their Tuesday night meeting after months of revisions that have made them less restrictive. They include regulations on the storage of items in carports and front yards, parking service and recreational vehicles in residential areas, and the maintenance of right of ways.

Councilman Reed Norman had opposed the amendments when they first came before council back in September, but he seconded the approval motion on Tuesday and said he was happy with the changes.

"We've done a little work on it, and I like it,” Norman said. "I feel like it still gives citizens freedom to do what they want on their property.”

Reed said he understands the desire to clean up the community and approves of the amendments as a way of doing so, but only if they ensure everyone is treated equally. Parts of the ordinance changes that have been taken out, such as the requirement to have a paved or improved surface to park vehicles on, were singled out for criticism by citizens who said they placed an unfair burden on people who have fixed incomes.

Also removed was a ban on storing anything other than cars in carports and a ban on playground equipment being placed in front yards. The revised amendments allow for the storage of items designed for outdoor use in carports and allow playgrounds and barbeque pits in front yards at all times so long as they are in working condition, and they allow for one setting of table and chairs designed for outdoor use. Any other table setting or chairs may be stored in front yards for a period of 72 hours.

City Manager Ralph Hendricks said all of the amendments will be phased in and there will be a period of little to no enforcement of the new rules. He also said the city will make an effort to properly educated citizens on the changes, especially during the spring.

For the full story, see Friday's Highlander.