The Ames Planning and Zoning Commission held the first of two public forums Wednesday night to allow the community to voice concerns and offer suggestions on six specific issues in the Land Use Policy Plan.

The forum began with a brief introduction to the issues led by city planner Joe Pietruszynski, after which the public was encouraged to make comments.

Issues discussed included:

• The lack of developer owned land in the Southwest Priority Area

• Developing a guiding policy for neighborhood/convenience commercial development in residential areas

• The issue of minimum density requirements for single-family housing

• “Village” as the preferred development option

• The annexation policy

• Urban fringe planning

Jennie LeGates, chairperson for the Planning and Zoning Commission, encouraged the public to attend these forums and get involved in the city’s expansion plans.

The next public forum regarding the Land Use Policy Plan will be held at the City Council Chambers in City Hall on Thursday, October 9 at 7:30 a.m.

Those interested in more information on the issues can visit the Department of Planning and Housing page on the City of Ames Web site at www.cityofames.org.

— Anne McCabe