Public hearing rescheduled on sex shop locations

By By Tracy L. Brady
Record Reporter
A public hearing regarding the location of adult-oriented businesses in Madison to certain areas within the city has been rescheduled.
The hearing, originally scheduled for July 8, has been rescheduled for July 22 per the request of Madison Community Development Director Bob Atallo who will be out of town
The hearing will give Madison residents the opportunity to speak their minds on a quest by the Madison City Council to amend current zoning laws that would limit adult-oriented businesses to locating in industrial zones only.
On April 15, the Madison City Council set a 120-day moratorium on issuing business licenses to adult-oriented businesses in that quest. The hearing has been set as part of the step-by-step process that must be taken before the council can finalize such an act.
Residents of Madison are encouraged to attend the public hearing to voice his opinion.
In other business, Mayor Jan Wells assured the council and residents "the flags will fly" on Hughes Road from now through July 4. The city has purchased new American flags to replace the torn and tattered ones at the entrance to Hughes Road from Madison Boulevard. Wells said a plea may soon be made to local veterans, Boy Scouts and the community regarding the proper handling and display of the flags.
Flagpole and tree placement, proper pole installation, and lighting costs are other concerns plaguing the city entrance. Wells said she would bring a recommendation for a resolution to the issue at the July 8 meeting.
In other action taken at the June 10 city council meeting, the council:
* Accepted a memorial for Madison Police K-9 Officer Rambo to be placed in the Madison Police Department.
* Authorized the mayor to enter into a land agreement with the Madison City Schools Board of Education regarding the Eastview/Dowdy property.
* Approved a request by Rock Divers, Inc. for a special event on-premise beer/wine license for an event to be held Sept. 20 and 21 in conjunction with the annual Trail of Tears event. Rock Divers will host a concert on the evening before the Trail of Tears ride passes through Madison. Some proceeds from the event will benefit the American Indian Museum.
* Announced the Madison Street Festival committee is seeking volunteers. The event is scheduled for Oct. 6.