El Lago looks at tightening zoning rules

Tonight El Lago City Council plans to discuss recommended changes to its zoning ordinance, including a proposal to restrict the number of boats and trailers that can be kept in driveways.
The workshop meeting is at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 98 Lakeshore Drive . The proposals were first presented last month to the council, who wanted more time to review the Planning and Zoning Commission's recommended changes.
City Secretary Ann Vernon said that those the City Council wants to pursue would be separated into individual ordinances and considered for approval at a Feb. 3 meeting.
Currently, the city does not have any restrictions on the number or size of boats and trailers kept in driveways. The proposed zoning ordinance would allow only one recreational vehicle -- no longer than 30 feet -- per driveway. The vehicle would not be allowed on the lawn.
Another proposal would require houses, buildings and other structures to be kept and maintained in good repair, function as originally intended, and be painted when necessary.
That way if a gate is falling off its hinge, you could say it's not functioning and that you need to repair it," Vernon said.
Another proposal would address how far forward a resident can have a fence, and there are also proposed rules for marinas, piers and bulkheads.