Zoning ordinance change would affect where body shops can locate in Decorah

Body shops might be allowed to locate on property in Decorah zoned C-1 highway commercial in the future.  The city's Planning & Zoning Commission has approved such a change and has sent on its recommendation to the Decorah City Council.

In the past body shops had to be located on property zoned industrial.  But supporters of the zoning change say almost all paints used on cars and trucks nowadays are water-based, which has ended the problems with paint drifting and with odors.  Air filters have removed airborne contaminants and odors as well.  Supporters also point out that the city still has a nuisance ordinance that would allow prosecution if any body shop was found guilty of emitting odors or contaminants.

The Decorah City Council is expected to vote on the change next Monday.