Editorial: Better public notice for zoning changes

The Assembly passed legislation Wednesday that would ensure more local homeowners will find out if their local government might change its master plan or grant special-use permits for zoning. Assemblyman Kelly Thomas, D-Las Vegas, who is a planner for the city of North Las Vegas, authored the legislation. Under the bill, local governments in Clark County would have to send a written notice to any homeowner who lives within 1,000 feet of property whose use could be changed under an amendment to the government's master plan (current notices limit this to 500 feet).

Separately, when a local government is considering the granting of a special-use permit or a conditional-use permit, Clark County residents who are within 500 feet would receive notice (the current limit is 300 feet). If the business seeking the permit is a bar, then those who live within 1,000 feet of the project would be notified.

Homeowners expect that their neighborhoods won't be radically changed without their knowledge. This legislation in no way makes it more difficult for developers to change master plans or get exemptions to existing zoning; Assembly Bill 349 simply makes sure that homeowners who may be affected by a zoning change are told what is going on in their back yard. The Senate should pass this legislation and send it to the governor for his signature.

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