FILLMORE : Zoning Plan OKd for Industrial Park

The Fillmore City Council on Tuesday night established a zoning plan for its proposed industrial park, with heavy industry confined to the northernmost section of the city and separated from the nearest housing by a buffer zone of light industry.

Although there are differences in the two sections, neither would permit the manufacture of soap, acetylene gas, plastics or pickles. In addition, the light-industry zone at the south end of the park would prohibit yards for construction equipment and businesses that rent heavy equipment.

Business owners already operating in the industrial sector were assured at a council meeting last month that they would not be forced to change or relocate their businesses to comply with new regulations. In a few special cases, boundaries may be adjusted to accommodate them, or the city will grant them an exemption.

A vote on an assessment district, which would raise funds for basic improvements to the proposed industrial park, is scheduled for late July. Property owners must agree to tax themselves more than $5 million before development can proceed.