As a form of preface, one of the largest companies in the world, Apple Computers, started their business in their garage. I see no valid reason why we couldn't learn from their example and to create an environment that is friendly to the operations of individuals interested in starting their own businesses. In the past decade, I have been instrumental in creating well over 70 jobs internationally, not by buying a big building and acquiring investors, but rather, by going to the heart of manufacturing itself, and lowering manufacturing costs of those machines. In 2001, the machines I set up cost my customers $45K. In 2009, they cost $17K, in 2011 $15K, and this year, I expect to produce a better machine for $9K, in total defiance of inflation. It should also be noted that the prototype machine I have used in accomplishing this goal has a manufacturing date stamp that precedes that of the city ordinances. Technology has changed dramatically over the past 15 years and these ordinances are in need of updating for that reason alone. Not only are there now affordable machining tools, but also, with the advent of 3D printing, other forms of prototyping and manufacturing are also available.
I also have a clear vision of how to restore American made manufacturing that doesn't involve big businesses, but rather, cooperative of one person manufacturing companies, most of which operating from their homes. The reasoning for this is very sound, as it lowers the overhead expenses, allowing us to compete with foreign imports. It also provides for a family friendly environment, in that parents never need to leave their homes to work and can work whatever hours work best for their family. I myself have successfully built such a model for my family and have a strong desire to make changes that would make it considerably easier for others to.
My current project is a Self-Replicating CNC with the designation of sr4848 (Self Replicating 48”x48” table space), occupying approximately 16 square feet of space, which is one of many bits of automation I intend to build to serve that end. This machine could easily fit into the home occupations ordinances and needs no variance requests, and for each machine installed into a residence, could easily become instrumental in creating careers worth $25+/hour . Personally, I have no interest in expanding beyond my home life because, simply put, it is the best lifestyle for my own family. We are both home for our daughter, which is an important distinction from having to work for a company. If we are to grow as a county, there needs to be a considerably more relaxed environment for everyone to create their own opportunities. We need to stop talking just about jobs, and start talking about careers that require only minimal overhead.
The following are definitions and ordinances as they apply to a home operated business. What I would like to see changed is as follows, to better encourage home operated manufacturing businesses and to provide for opportunities for those who cannot leave home to become useful members of society. I also seek to eliminate the unnecessary corporate bias that only serves the only interests of big businesses.
A home occupation shall be permitted within a dwelling unit provided:
(A)It does not occupy more than 20% of the gross floor area of the dwelling unit or 250 square feet, whichever is larger, and does not require alteration of the structure.
(B)Not more than 1 non-resident is employed.
(C) Sales are only of commodities or services produced on the premises.
(D) The only mechanical equipment installed or used is that normally used for domestic or household purposes, or normally associated with the profession or business.
(E) Notice or other announcement of such occupation is limited to a small sign not over 2 square feet in area.
(F) Home occupations that are not clearly within the definitions and provisions of this section shall require the filing of a request for variance with the Zoning Board of Appeals.
(1981 Code, § 150.38) (Ord. 6570-93, passed 12-13-1993; Am. Ord. 6864-98, passed 6-22-1998)
ACCESSORY USE OF STRUCTURE. A use of structure (such as a garage) incidental to the main use of the land or building. In buildings restricted to residence use, the office of a professional person, and workshops not conducted for compensation shall be deemed accessory uses. In commercial, institutional and industrial areas, parking lots are accessory uses.
It is not my interest to generate additional revenue for the city directly, but rather create equipment which can produce income for the people, which indirectly produces a greater revenue for the city. There is also a work force available that could easily be motivated to drop out of the welfare system given the opportunity, and home based manufacturing should not be limited to sewing machines, but should also comply with noise ordinances. The following are proposed changes to better support a home based manufacturing environment.
150.38(A), if the home occupation is the only residence and the person operating out of their home is happy, what percentage of the home is used for business is of no legitimate business to the city. In fact, the very entry into a person's home to assess personal vs business space is a violation of natural rights.
150.38(B), my goal is by far not to create jobs for people, but rather empower people to become their own employer. If someone comes to my home with an idea that could be made commercially, odds are, they would be paying me commissions for the use of my equipment to produce it, until such time as they could afford to pay for the materials to manufacture their own machine(s).
150.38(C), by definition is the intention, creating real manufacturing businesses and automation to serve that end. It should be noted that clearly, there are home based businesses that do NOT comply with this limitation, such as gun sales. Avon, and other products ordered and resold.
150.38(D), From the perspective of “normally used” equipment, and from that of having a background in engineering, anything that operates at a 115 volts or 230 volts at typical amperage and is designed for home use would qualify. If the profession or business is that of engineering or fabrication of custom parts, it would be normally associated with that profession.
150.38(E), it should be noted that an over the counter for sale sign often violates this ordinance. I personally have no use for such signs but do believe that it is too restrictive.
A home occupation shall be permitted within a dwelling unit provided:
(A)It does not occupy more than 20% of the residential floor area of the dwelling unit or 250 square feet, whichever is larger, and does not require alteration of the structure.
(B)Not more than 1 non-occupant is employed.
(C) Sales are only of commodities or services produced on the premises.
(D) The only mechanical equipment installed or used is that normally used for domestic or household purposes, or normally associated with the profession or business.
(E) Notice or other announcement of such occupation is limited to a small sign not over 3 square feet in area.
(F) Home occupations that are not clearly within the definitions and provisions of this section shall require the filing of a request for variance with the Zoning Board of Appeals.
ACCESSORY USE OF STRUCTURE. A use of structure (such as a garage) incidental to the main use of the land or building. In buildings restricted to residence use, the office of a professional person, and workshops shall be deemed accessory uses. In commercial, institutional and industrial areas, parking lots are accessory uses.