The Gilpin supervisors are seeking public input as they work to modernize what they consider an outdated zoning ordinance.
Supervisor Charles Stull launched the first of two online public surveys Tuesday.
Residents are encouraged to complete the survey, which is available through Oct. 7.
It can be accessed at surveymonkey.com/r/GilpinZoning.
Residents without internet access can pick up paper copies of the survey at the township building, 589 Route 66.
“The goal is to involve the residents and business owners in the formation of the new ordinance and allow their input to guide us as we develop it,” Stull said.
In April, supervisors awarded a contract to Mackin Engineering to overhaul the township’s decades-old zoning ordinances.
The project will cost about $39,000.
A project steering committee will include input from the survey during the yearlong project.
Committee members are Stull, zoning hearing board member Beth McDonald, planning commission member Donna Rentler, zoning officer Sharon Long and emergency management coordinator and police Chief Chris Fabec.
Gilpin’s current zoning laws were approved in 1985. They include designations for conservation, agricultural, residential (R-1 and R-2), commercial and industrial.
Township officials would like to see more commercial zoning.
Stull estimated the township is zoned about 40% agricultural, 30% residential, 10% commercial, 10% conservation and 10% industrial.
Gilpin was settled in 1814 and established in 1878.
The township has a zoning map and zoning laws that specify where certain types of buildings and businesses are allowed.
Supervisor Linda Alworth said the township must prioritize attracting more people to the area.
“We have to get more people in the community, and the only way to do that is for them to have a reason to come here,” Alworth said. “We’ve been too stale. We need some excitement.”
Stull noted new business growth in the township has been stagnant since a Dollar General opened in 2014.
“Our business district has not seen growth in the past 10 years,” Stull said. “The plans of the current project steering committee is to expand our business district to the other end of the township, including the entire Route 66 corridor.”
Stull said potential expanded zoning ordinances to increase the township’s business corridor will not affect the township’s rural attributes.
“We can still hold on to our rural appeal,” Stull said. “But we need to build up a better tax base to be less of a hindrance to our residents. We don’t want to have to raise taxes too often.”
A public meeting to discuss the new zoning ordinance is expected to take place in November.
