Associated Press Published

Martinsburg Council to Vote on Definition of Public Building

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Martinsburg City Council members are expected to cast the final vote on an amendment to the city’s zoning ordinance that would define public buildings in a way that would prevent the Berkley County Council from opening a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center in the city.

The Journal reports the proposed amendment was approved by the City Council in January.

The County Council bought a building in November with plans to renovate it into a rehab facility.

The County Council had requested the property be rezoned to allow for the development. The Martinsburg Planning Commission approved the rezoning. However, City Council members voted against rezoning.

County Council members tried to withdraw their request for a zoning change, arguing that under the city’s zoning ordinance, public buildings are allowed in all zones. The City Council voted against the withdrawal.