PL PACKET 07202021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Included in the packet is a copy of the current regulations in place, as well as an updated table-form document that lists the series of potential amendments to the district. As part of the table-from document, comments are provided for each proposed change discussing the rationale behind the new language. The revisions from the work session are highlighted for additional clarity The current district language was established many years ago, and reflects a more moderate density, suburban style of multi-family development. Just in the past few years, the City has considered multi-family projects on four different sites (one of which did not proceed). Each of those were required to utilize the PUD zoning process due to a series of modifications the projects required from typical R-4 regulations, including density, setbacks, parking calculations, height, and other factors. The current R-4 District restricts density to anywhere from about 13 units per acre up to 24 units per acre, depending on the size of the building. Over the past two years, the City considered, and adopted, an updated Comprehensive Plan that directs development in high density zoning districts to between 20 and 40 units per acre. While PUD is still a viable path for projects that exceed density or other aspects of the R-4 standards, it can be difficult to process when the individual aspects of the project are of borderline quality or push the envelope in some way. Without baseline standards that reflect a reasonable expectation for development in the district, everything is left to negotiation, which can put the City in a difficult position. The revisions to the district are intended to create a threshold for higher density projects that set an expectation for development. Beyond this, the threshold for PUD consideration would also then be higher, as this becomes the new baseline. Recommended Action. Planning staff recommends approval of the proposed amendments, with any additional changes discussed at the public hearing. As noted, these changes will make multi- family development more straightforward in those areas where it is proposed, set specific minimum expectations for such development, and bring the zoning ordinance more closely into conformance with the Comprehensive Plan. The Planning Commission’s advisory action will then be forwarded to the City Council for its final action at an upcoming meeting.