By Chris Hendrickson, Monitor
Council made the decision to withhold further action in relation to the East Monroe rezone until a special council meeting the day after Christmas.
The first reading of the ordinance which will potentially rezone the 43-acre parcel of land located on the north side of U.S. 2 and east of Woods Creek was held on Dec. 10 and passed with a 5 to 1 vote. Cudaback was the dissenting vote and Gamble was absent.
A resident in opposition of the rezone has asked for a reconsideration of the Hearing Examiner's appeal decision which found for the city in support of the rezone proposal.
The Hearing Examiner found in favor of the rezone and the landowners seeking the rezone.
A second and final reading of the rezone amendment will take place in a special council session on Dec. 26 at 7 p.m. at city hall.
"I'd like to finish the council's work this year,GÇ¥ said Kamp.
Council voted 5 to 2 in favor of holding the special session, Cudaback and Gamble opposed.
It is anticipated that second readings on both the East Monroe rezone and the school mitigation fees will occur at the special session.
HONORING DAVE DEMAREST
Long-time Planning Commissioner Dave Demarest was honored at City Hall last week during the city council meeting. Councilmembers, along with Monroe Mayor Robert Zimmerman and ex-mayor Donnetta Walser, thanked Demarest for his 21 years of service to the Monroe community.
Walser talked of Demarest's skill as a leader and his dedication to the city, complimenting him for his great attention to detail on all matters pertaining to the city.
"His work on the planning commission is beyond reproach,GÇ¥ said Walser.
Demarest was instrumental in the development of the city's first comprehensive plan. His tenure on the commission took place during a time of extremely rapid growth for Monroe; the Fryelands residential development area did not exist yet when he came onboard. Neither did Lake Tye Park or the nearby industrial park.
"I, for one, think he's one of our local heroes and I appreciate all the work he did,GÇ¥ said Walser.
Demarest, a real estate broker, sought the position in 1992 because he felt he had something to offer to his community.
"Twenty-one years ago, plus, when I was asked why I wanted to be on the planning commission, I said that I wanted to be a part of my community, and I thought I might have a little something to offer,GÇ¥ said Demarest.
Demarest's role with the planning commission will come to an official end after December.
"It's been a privilege,GÇ¥ said Demarest. "I can't say enough good things about my experience here overall.GÇ¥
Mayor Zimmerman presented Demarest with a plaque from the city in recognition of his service on the planning commission, as well as a framed certificate of appreciation.
"I want to say thank you on behalf of the citizens of Monroe,GÇ¥ said Zimmerman.
FAREWELL TO MAYOR ZIMMERMAN
Monroe Mayor Robert Zimmerman said farewell to council during what was his last regular council meeting of the year.
Councilmembers all took turns thanking him for his service.
"I just want to say how much of an honor it has been to serve with you,GÇ¥ said Goering. "I couldn't be more proud of the things we've been able to accomplish.GÇ¥
The sentiment was echoed by all members of council.
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