Chauncey mayor pushes to abolish village zoning code

Chauncey, Ohio Mayor Frank Campbell is advocating for the complete abolition of the village's zoning code, asserting it is unfair to local residents, particularly those facing poverty, due to potential fines and criminal charges for violations. Campbell, elected in November on a platform to eliminate such codes, expressed his belief that landowners should have full control over their property.

His proposal faced strong pushback during a special meeting of the Chauncey Village Council on August 27. Rob Delach, an Athens resident and Chauncey property owner who chairs the Athens Board of Zoning Appeals, argued that eliminating zoning would not improve the village and is crucial for protecting property values and regulating developers. Delach specifically highlighted that developers are exploring Dover Township for new data centers due to its current lack of zoning, indicating a potential risk for Chauncey if its code is abolished. Former Mayor Amy Renner (2019-2024) also vocally supported the zoning code, which was adopted in 2022 after a two-year public input process, as a necessary tool to prevent unchecked development and give the village control over what is built.

Campbell, however, suggested implementing alternative ordinances to address community concerns and property issues, without elaborating on specifics. Mollie Fitzgerald, executive director of the Athens County Economic Development Council, questioned the distinction between Campbell's proposed ordinances and existing zoning. The debate underscores a broader conflict between the current village administration's aims and policies established by the previous government, including past discussions on repealing anti-discrimination ordinances.