KOA Campground Changes Hands

An amendment to the city ordinance that governs recreational vehicle parks in the City of Willow Springs has been on the City Council’s agenda for the last two months. Prior to the July meeting, the Board of Aldermen and the prospective property owner, Susan Swift, were at last able to agree on language. 

Initially, the City had concerns about recreational vehicles being used as permanent dwelling places in the new RV park, which will be located near the north junction with Highway 60/63. It was formerly the site of a KOA campground. City Administrator Beverly Hicks shared with the Council that the proposed property owner was wary of an ordinance that would be too restrictive and could harm her business. 

Ordinance 1568 which revises Chapter 605 of the Willow Springs Municipal code, ensures that vehicles in a recreational vehicle park, as defined in this newly implement section, cannot be used as a permanent place of abode and requires the permit holder to maintain records of occupants and to use City utilities, including sewer, electricity, and water.

A unanimous vote passed the ordinance, and Hicks stated that a copy of the proposed Ordinance was provided to Susan Swift, who approved, and felt it provided some protection for her business as well.