HUMBOLDT — Orderly growth is the motivation for a plan developed by Humboldt’s Planning Commission and handed to city council members Monday night.
“This isn’t about forced annexation, it’s just a plan,” said City Administrator Larry Tucker.
A handful of people who live within shouting distance of the city limits aren’t so sure. They remember when two years ago the city proposed extraterritorial zoning within 3 miles of the city, which fizzled out when Allen County commissioners promised to reject it.
In a nutshell, this is what the plan would do:
— Provide for commercial and residential development in areas north and east of town. The Neosho River flood plain west of Humboldt precludes development. Land south of town is owned by Monarch Cement and oil companies.
— Designate transportation routes as corridors for growth. K-224, which connects the north side of Humboldt to U.S. 169, likely would be earmarked for commercial development; Georgia Road, the asphalt road running east of town, would be the likely avenue for residential growth. Old Highway 169 north of town, 1400 Street, which intersects with K-224 northeast of Humboldt, and Pine Street, which becomes Florida Road outside the city limit, also were mentioned.
— Rights of way along these transportation routes would be targeted for utility easements.
— Landowners along these routes would be invited to request annexation, mainly whenever development became imminent.
— Budget annually to create reserve funds to pay for utility extensions. The city provides gas, water and sewer.
While stressing repeatedly that the plan was not a precursor for annexation, the plan does propose the city entertain voluntary annexation, including island annexation of areas not contiguous to land within the city if a development were proposed.
Specifically, Tucker said an example would be a travel center, such as the two near the intersection of highways 169 and 54 at the east edge of Iola. If that were to occur, he said utilities would be necessary and Humboldt could extend them along K-224.
Mayor Nobby Davis cut short opposing comments, most dealing with fears of forced annexation, by announcing “anyone who wants to ask questions” may meet with him, Tucker and City Attorney Fred Works “anytime you want to.” He further discouraged comments, noting “this is the first time we (he and council members) have seen the plan.”
When those wanting to speak in opposition to the plan persisted, a special council meeting was scheduled for 7 p.m. Jan. 4 to give the opportunity in a group setting.
Works intervened to note that “there is no policy in this. It’s only identifying if Humboldt grows where it will occur and is forward thinking to accommodate requests” made by developers. “Basically, we’re trying to be prepared,” with arrangements for utility easements and funding for utility extensions. “It’s simply a statement of what the city should be thinking about.”
“It’s just a plan to move forward,” Davis said. “We’re here to do what’s best for the community.”
Growth plan proposed
