Richfield City Council members have changed their minds about a recent adopted ordinance requiring curbs, gutters and sidewalks as a condition for obtaining a building permit.
The council also repealed another ordinance that has been in effect for eight years.Mayor Jay C. Andersen said it was feared the new ordinance would stop development in the city. Officials delayed issuing four permits because of the policy, and other prospective builders voiced concern.
The council will study the issues, hoping to establish a policy that won't stymie development outside of subdivisions.
The older ordinance limited parking on Main Street and for a block east and west of that street in the downtown business section of the city. It was initially adopted to discourage business owners and employees from parking in the area, therefore allowing more space for customers.
City officials said business owners and employees have learned to recognize the problem and have worked toward alleviating it. Also, additional parking space has been developed in two parking lots east and west of Main Street near rear entrances to businesses along the block between Center and 100 North Streets.