Why does the City need to update its Zoning and Development Codes?

There are three reasons why the City needs to update its zoning code and other development regulations:

• The code is not regulating development in a way that advances the community’s current goals. A new Growth Policy was adopted in 2015 that set new goals for how the City will grow and change, but the code has not been significantly amended. The city and residents have observed that the code often gets in the way of development that would help achieve those shared goals.

• Community priorities are evolving. A Growth Policy Review occurred in fall of 2021. In the Growth Policy Review, the City identified that community needs and priorities have changed in recent years. The Growth Policy Review emphasized the need to update the code. This was to ensure alignment between city policies and regulations that guide development. These reasons are why the Growth Policy Update is starting now.

• The code is confusing and difficult to use for residents, businesses, and City staff. Rules and regulations are spread across too many different sections. Some rules conflict with other rules, causing confusion about which rule applies. And the various sections are not well-organized, making it difficult to find information.

The City is embracing the opportunity to reorganize and reform the code. This will give the City better tools for encouraging development that contributes to shared community goals. Examples of these goals are affordable housing, equity, and climate change mitigation. It will also make the code more clear and easier to use for residents and businesses.