Mendon P&Z addresses accessory building woes

By Chari Ingraham

November 20, 2008 | MENDON -- The Planning and Zoning Committee discussed Wednesday night several obstacles it has faced for accessory buildings.

Although the committee had received an application from a resident to build an accessory building behind their home, the applicant never appeared at the meeting. In fact, none of the city's residents appeared at the meeting except for one of the City Council members and three students from Utah State University. Because none of the city residents were present, the committee could make no formal action on the issue.

Aside from the fact that no one attends zoning and planning meetings, committee members also have a problem with determining which accessory buildings are in compliance with the city's requirements.

Many people simply build an accessory building behind their homes without applying, and install the buildings too close to property lines, said the committee chair.

"I don't want to get emotionally involved in a discussion with neighbors or family about who owns what property," he said.

The committee members also face problems with regulating the building of the accessory buildings while still maintaining a rural atmosphere of Mendon.

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