South Dakota House Bill HB1114

South Dakota 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/22
• Refer: 1/24/22

Caption

Revise a notice requirement for a hearing on the comprehensive plan in a joint jurisdictional area.

Impact

If enacted, HB1114 would revise the current procedures related to public hearing notices. Specifically, the bill requires that notice of such hearings be published at least ten days in advance in a legal newspaper, and it mandates that the county commissioners must also send a notice by mail to property owners within the proposed joint jurisdictional area. This change is designed to ensure that property owners and stakeholders are well-informed about upcoming discussions that may affect their land and community planning activities.

Summary

House Bill 1114 aims to revise the notice requirement for public hearings on the comprehensive plan within a joint jurisdictional area, defined as the area beyond the corporate limits of an incorporated municipality. This bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the legislative bodies of municipalities and county commissioners in exercising their planning and zoning powers together. The legislation seeks to enhance the existing framework of joint municipal planning and streamline the communication process regarding public hearings, which is critical for transparency and community involvement in zoning matters.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding the enactment of HB1114 revolves around the sufficiency and accessibility of the notice requirements for public hearings. While supporters argue that the revised notice provisions will enhance public awareness and participation, concerns have been raised regarding whether the changes adequately serve all community members, especially those with limited access to legal publications or those who may not regularly check such notices. The requirement for mailing notices to property owners is a step toward inclusivity, but investigations into any further improvements or support systems for stakeholders may still be warranted.