Big Box Retail Developments

Members of the Three Rivers City Commission earlier this week rejected a plan to act as the municipality’s zoning board of appeals in matters related to so-called Big Box retail developments.

Following an informal consensus Tuesday, Mayor Tom Lowry and commissioners decided to field such matters.

The issue was raised in light of concerns that the city’s ZBA has a history of approving variances inconsistent with city codes. The latest example arose during negotiations with Menard’s home-improvement store and its site plans on West Broadway Road.

Commissioner David York said the commission has its hands full with other city business and the ZBA should be trusted to follow due diligence in all matters before it.

As a compromise, York volunteered to serve as a liaison between the ZBA and the city commission.