LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) \u2014 Branched Oak Observatory is working with Lancaster County to amend local zoning regulations that currently do not allow the facility to operate as an observatory.<\/p>\n
The five-and-a-half acre property, which has been in use as the Branched Oak Observatory in Raymond since 2015, is zoned agricultural. <\/p>\n
The county\u2019s current definition of recreational facilities is geared toward sports and other active uses, meaning an observatory is not permitted under existing rules.<\/p>\n
Co-founder and executive director Matthew Anderson said the observatory has welcomed more than 150,000 visitors since opening.<\/p>\n
\u201cGiven that there are several steps remaining in the county\u2019s public review process, I believe it is best to allow that process to run its course before commenting on the proposed ordinance,\u201d Anderson told 10\/11 in a statement on Monday.<\/p>\n
The path to compliance involves two steps.<\/p>\n
First, a text amendment to zoning regulations would be adopted to allow for passive recreational uses, such as stargazing. Then, the observatory would apply for a special use permit under those updated regulations.<\/p>\n
County planner George Wesselhoft said the county was notified of the zoning issue by Branched Oak Observatory last summer as the facility was working on potential expansion plans.<\/p>\n
Wesselhoft said the amendment would have broader implications for Lancaster County.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt will benefit other passive recreational uses throughout Lancaster County, such as bird watching, nature trails, other uses which are not active recreation like sports facilities,\u201d Wesselhoft said.<\/p>\n