The Zoning & Planning Committee voted to hold the following (see report and watch the meeting video):
- Addition of a maximum residential façade build-out ratio to Chapter 30 Zoning (7–0). The committee reviewed four options presented by the Planning Department and consultant Utile. Members favored a 20-foot setback exemption but expressed concern about impact on trees, demolitions, and enforcement complexity.
- Amendments to encourage preservation of existing homes (7–0), Multi-Residential zone setback revisions (7–0), and zoning alignment with actual use (7–0). These related items were discussed concurrently, with support for reducing scale in business zones and maintaining context sensitivity. Councilors raised many concerns about residential buildings in commercial zones.
- Requesting discussion and possible ordinance amendments regarding raised beds in the setback (7-0) “Councilors expressed support for a potential height limit on raised beds.”
Present: Councilors Baker (Chair), Oliver, Albright, Wright, Krintzman, Danberg, and Getz
Absent: Kalis
Also Present: Councilors Block, Kelley, and Leary
City Staff: Deputy Director of Planning Jen Caira, Senior Planner Nora Masler, Senior Assistant
City Solicitor Andrew Lee, and Commissioner of Inspectional Services Anthony Ciccariello