The Fishers City Council gave final approval to new open space standards  at Monday night’s meeting.  The vote to approve was 8-1, with Councilman Todd Zimmerman voting no.

Zimmerman said he could not determine the impact this action will have on small businesses and entrepreneurs and that resulted in his no vote.

The Fishers Plan Commission held a public hearing on the proposal, sparking a spirited discussion, particularly among three city council members on the Plan Commission – Brad DeReamer, Pete Peterson and Zimmerman.

The Monday vote establishes a fee schedule for open spaces, but business owners can avoid the fee by displaying public art in the open space.

City Planning and Zoning Director Tony Bagato said his staff will review the first two years of this action, then consider recommending further changes if needed.