By JIMMY LAWTON

North Country This Week

OGDENSBURG – Ogdensburg will host three open house events to educate residents on the proposed citywide zoning ordinance that was years in the making.

The ordinance redefines existing zones and creates new zones. It aims to direct development in a way that makes sense for Ogdensburg’s future and establishes a host of definitions to remove vague or confusing language in the current code.

The 110-page document can be found on Ogdensburg.org, but those with questions can find out more information at the three scheduled open houses.

The events will be held at the Ogdensburg Dobisky Center May 9 at 6 p.m., May 22 at noon, and June 6 at 6 p.m.

The city recently completed a full review of the Ogdensburg zoning code.

According to the document, the goal is to create a code that reinforces the character of Ogdensburg as a waterfront community, instead of taking a “one size fits all” approach used by most conventional zoning codes.

This zoning code will help pave the way for implementation of the current Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) to establish a path for long-term sustainable development within Ogdensburg.

The zoning plan will direct new development in a sustainable manner, according to planners.

“These principles are meant to inform developers, planners, architects, landscape architects, engineers and construction managers about sustainable site planning, design and construction practices that encompass long-term economic, social and environmental considerations for Ogdensburg,” the document says. “In addition to pursuing the general culture of sustainability, compliance with the principles and referenced standards link natural and man-made systems with community needs.”

According to planners these goals will help the community establish itself as a leader in sustainable development.

Throughout the process of rewriting and updating the city’s zoning code, residents, city decision makers, and many other stakeholders and interested persons were engaged to help guide and develop the new code.

For more information contact City Planner Andrea Smith 315-393-7150.