THE MONT VERNON PLANNING BOARD will hold a public hearing on January 8, 2008 at 7:00 PM in the Mont Vernon Town Hall on the following proposed amendment to the town Zoning Ordinance. The Board will then decide whether or not to accept or revise the regulation. If the Board accepts it, the amendment will appear on a ballot on voting day March 11, 2008. The public is invited to attend the hearing.

I-311.1 The historic character of Mont Vernon is unique and is important to its people and their collective identity as a community. Mont Vernon, more than most communities, that have experienced the same level of growth, has managed to preserve its rural character and its small town feel. In many ways Mont Vernon has achieved this in a manner that is unique to the region.

I-311.2 Any restaurant approved under this ordinance must not significantly detract from Mont Vernon’s historic rural character. Fast food and Formula restaurants are specifically prohibited in the Town of Mont Vernon.

I-311.3 Restaurants are specifically allowed on any lot within the Limited Commercial District. Restaurants in the Residential and Rural/Residential Districts may be approved by special exception by the Zoning Board of Adjustment after public hearing, such approval shall be subject to any conditions laid down by the Zoning Board of Adjustment including a Non-Residential Site Plan review by the Planning Board.

I-311.4 All signs and/or exterior advertising for a restaurant shall comply with the requirements and standards set forth in the Non-Residential Site Plan Review Regulations of the Town of Mont Vernon.

I-311.5 Noise – Restaurant noise shall not exceed 70dbA at the lot boundary.

I-311.6 Buffer – If required by the Zoning Board of Adjustments restaurants shall provide a buffer of undisturbed continuous perimeter, except for entrance and exit driveways.

I-311.7 Height – Building height shall be limited to the height of all Mont Vernon buildings, that is 35 feet. No window ledge shall be more than 26 feet from the ground.

I-311.8 Parking – Restaurants shall provide off-street parking.

I-311.9 Restaurants approved by Special Exception may be subject to setbacks, lighting restrictions, and other condition as required by the Zoning Board of Adjustments or Planning Board.