The Norwalk City Council approved several zoning, annexation, and administrative items during its meeting on Thursday, including moving forward with a large voluntary annexation southwest of the city.

Following a public hearing, the council approved landowner applications for the voluntary annexation of approximately 282 acres southwest of Norwalk. Two residents spoke during the hearing, one raising questions about future development and another voicing support for the annexation. City staff encouraged residents to follow future agendas and meetings as development plans progress.

The council also held a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Brody’s Landing Planned Unit Development related to deck bulk regulations. With no public comments received, council members unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance amending the official zoning map for parcels within the development.

In other action, the council initiated a rezoning request for the Orchard Hills Planned Unit Development, referring the proposal to the Planning and Zoning Commission and setting a future public hearing. The proposed amendment involves R-4 high-density residential and C-5 traditional neighborhood commercial uses. Council members also approved an increase to the city’s deferred compensation retirement benefit for non-union full-time employees.