The City of Altus Planning Commission voted on Tuesday to recommend City Council rezone the 1200-1310 block of N. Park Lane from a Suburban Commercial to an Auto-Urban Commercial classification.

Held in the Conference Room of the second floor at the Municipal Complex before contesting property owners and hopeful prospectors, this public hearing reconvened from Feb. 11 when this item was tabled.

After the meeting was called to order, Chairman John Bailey invited anyone who had not voiced their opinion on Feb. 11 to do within a three minute time limit, when attorney Steve McCaleb of Oklahoma City, representing some of the property owners, had addressed the board. After he reviewed recommendations of a staff report, he explained, McCaleb brought attention to an excerpt that states, “UDC allows as a permitted use on the AC District, Institutional Uses: Public Service.”

“It appears that AIR Evac is a private company that charges a membership fee of $50 a year. For the purposes of allowing the ambulance service via the exception of a public service, we take objection to that,” stated McCaleb.

No other members from the public had any further comments.

Bailey commented that after they convened from the previous meeting, the City of Altus Planning Commission performed all necessary research and are satisfied with their findings. Baily then opened for a motion.

Jon Kidwell motioned to disapprove. There was no second.

Larry McLaughlin provided clarification to the room full of property owners and prospectors. “The purpose of our committee is to research the request and abide by the Uniform Development Code (UDC).” Without looking at the specific purpose of this property, rezoning the property to a Auto Urban Commercial class does abide with the UDC, McLaughlin explained. He expressed that he didn’t want to upset anyone with a difference of opinion, however, motioned to approved. “I’m trying to follow the rules of the law. I would make a motion that this request be approved.”

Motion to approve was seconded by Trevor Deweese.

A vote was called. John Bailey, yes, Trevor Deweese, yes, Larry McLAughlin, yes, Jon Kidwell, no.

A three to one vote sent the recommendation to the City Council to vote on.