The year was 1964. Then-president Lyndon Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act. The Beatles arrived in New York City. Underdog Cassius Clay defeated champion Sonny Liston in a technical knockout to win the world heavyweight boxing crown. The Ford Mustang was unveiled at the World’s Fair in New York.

It was also the year the City of Metropolis last passed a zoning ordinance. And while it’s been amended over the years, it hasn’t had a full-blown makeover. That process began some eight years ago.

The preliminary draft is the subject of two public hearings scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20 and 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 21 at the Metropolis Community Center.

It, along with a map, is available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s office, the Metropolis Public Library, the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce or on the city’s website, www.cityofmetropolis.com.

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