SIDNEY — Sidney will grow by about 25 acres if a recommendation by the Sidney Planning Commission is endorsed by City Council.

The commission Monday night recommended that council approve the annexation of 25.249 acres on the north side of Fair and Schenk roads. The purpose of this annexation is to make the property available for development with city utilities and services, according to a report presented to the commission by Community Services Director Barbara Dulworth.

Attorney J. Trent Snavley, on behalf of Charles Cole, has petitioned for the annexation. The land currently is used for crop farming. Future uses of the land have not been announced; however, the city’s Annexation Review Committee has suggested that the zoning be I-2, general industrial. The current agricultural use would become a legal, nonconforming use at the time of establishment of zoning, but could continue until such time as the nonconforming use ceases for two years, Dulworth said in her report. The establishment of zoning requires separate action and will be scheduled for the commission’s review at a later date.

The Annexation Review Committee found the proposed annexation to be consistent with the city’s policies and objectives, capable of being served by the city, and within the logical growth area of the city. The proposed annexation will not generate a substantial negative impact on city facilities and services, said the committee, which recommended that the commission accept and approve the Cole annexation.

Commission members asked about drainage and fire-protection issues regarding the property. Dulworth said the land is not in a flood plain and a storm-detention area would be required as part of the development plan. In the annexation assessment, fire officials raised concerns about adequate water pressure. Dulworth said the water line will be looped when the land is developed, providing enough water pressure.

In other business, the commission decided during an informal discussion after the meeting to change its meeting time. Commission Chairman Tom Ehler suggested changing the meeting time from 7:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The rest of the commission agreed. The new time will begin in January.