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Minutes - Plan coiltssion Page 4 April 25, 1990 . such rezoning. The properties recommended for rezoning are described by the following Locator Numbers assigned by the Saint Louis County Assessor's Office: 1. 18J12 0148 2. 18J12 0852 3. 18J12 0159 4. 18J12 0313 The motion was seconded by Mr. Kendall and passed by a vote of 6- O. PROPOSAL FOR TEXT AMENDMENT - PROHIBITION OF WINDOW BARS ON CERTAIN RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES Planning Staff informed Commission members that a City Councilmember had proposed a regulation which would prohibit further installation of security bars or other similar devices on windows and doors of one- and two-family homes. Planning Department staff drafted a proposed subsection to Zoning Code Section 34-52 as a possible answer to the request. Mr. Goldman stated that the city already had some restriction on security bars; they may not be installed on bedroom windows unless they are readily opened without the use of tools or special knowledge. This regulation prevents installation of many window bars, but does not eliminate bars when the property changes hands or is occupied by a new tenant. Mr. Goldman explained that while the inspection staff may not be enthusiastic about enforcing yet another requirement, the Zoning Code was chosen as the place to include such a regulation because it is an aesthetic concern and not one proposed for health or safety. Mr. Foxworth understood that health and safety issues were uppermost in the minds of the property owners who installed bars on windows of their homes; however, bars were unsightly and had a negative impact on one's general impression of neighborhood safety. Mr. Kendall asked if a separate regulation was being proposed for basement windows since these were not as visible but were more likely subject to break-in than more visible windows. Planning staff replied that this could be made as an exception to the proposal. Extensive discussion ensued regarding the difference between security bars and decorative bars which were intended to enhance the decor or architecture of the home. Mr. Kendall proposed rewording the proposed ordinance. After some further discussion and editing of the proposal, Mr. Safe recommended that the Plan Commission recommend adoption of the following text amendment, thereby amending Section 34-52.4 of the University City Zoning Code by adding the following new subsection: (h) Security bars and burglar bars shall not be installed on any window or doorway of any one- or two-family structure, excluding basement windows.