AL HB283

Create a Montgomery County Planning Commission composed of seven members (qualified voters and residents of Montgomery County) with jurisdiction over all unincorporated areas, with a majority from unincorporated areas and at least one member with agriculture expertise.

Authorize the planning commission to adopt a master plan and zoning regulations for unincorporated Montgomery County areas, with county commission approval, and establish procedures for amending zoning regulations.

Require a special election in each precinct (petitioned by at least 25 percent of qualified voters, held 30-45 days after petition filing) where majority voter approval is needed before planning commission authority applies to that precinct.

Prohibit zoning regulations from being retroactive and authorize the county commission to hear appeals, grant special exceptions, and authorize variances from adopted regulations, with further appeal rights to circuit court within 30 days.

Act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval, and supersedes conflicting provisions of Act 350 (1971) upon voter approval in any precinct.