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MINUTES <br />PLANNING COMMISSION <br />OCTOBER 8, 2020 <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />2 <br />The Community Development Director provided background information on the update to the <br />Zoning Code. <br /> <br />Bill Weber provided a summary of the comprehensive list that he developed related to the <br />updating of the Zoning Code. He provided additional details related to land uses as well as <br />conditional, accessory and permitted uses. He stated that there are some structural problems <br />within the Zoning Code as well as flaws within the different zoning districts and provided some <br />examples. He identified areas of the Zoning Code that could be condensed or simplified for <br />efficiency and clarity. <br /> <br />Commissioner Kwapick asked how this would interplay with the existing PUDs. <br /> <br />Mr. Weber explained that the PUD tool has been used as a crutch to get around the inadequacies <br />of the current Zoning Ordinance. He stated that any land zoned PUD can keep that land <br />designation, but it would be reviewed if the property redevelops. He noted that some of the sites <br />could be reverted to a standard zoning district. <br /> <br />The Community Development Director commented that for the properties that are zoned PUD, it <br />can be difficult to discuss allowed uses with interested parties and it would be easier to have a <br />list of allowed uses as mentioned by Mr. Weber. She stated that perhaps the original intent was <br />to provide flexibility, but it instead often causes confusion. <br /> <br />Mr. Weber identified additional areas of the code that could be condensed and/or cleaned up, <br />providing examples. He commented that after the updates the Zoning Code should be more <br />understandable, and easy to use. <br /> <br />Commissioner Kwapick agreed that it would be easier to have a better identified plan and <br />outlined uses so that variances are not used as much. <br /> <br />Commissioner Johnson agreed that this is a good plan. She commented that while the PUD <br />offers flexibility, it also places undue burden on the businesses because of the additional work <br />that is necessary without knowing whether their business would be an allowed use. She believed <br />that more unified guidelines and clarity would make it more attractive to businesses that may <br />want to be in the corridor. <br /> <br />The Community Development Director reviewed the next steps, which includes a discussion <br />with the City Council about the process in November. <br /> <br /> <br />REPORT FROM STAFF <br />The Community Development Director reported that Commissioner Westadt is moving outside <br />of the City and therefore will be resigning as a member of the Commission. She thanked