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Proposed Zoning Text Amendment related to building height for C2 zoned properties
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Submitted by:
Art Pi?on
Department:
Development
A. Background/Options
Background:
On September 20, 2023, Alderperson Joseph Makhlouf II submitted a memo (Attachment A) to the Community Affairs Committee (CAC) proposing development standards for General Commercial (C2) zoned properties located within 50 feet of Residential (R) zoned properties. The proposed standards would limit building height to 60 feet, remove the existing residential density limit for mixed use development (1 unit for every 1,000 square feet of lot area), and prohibit rezoning, variance, or Planned Unit Development requests to exceed the 60-foot height limit. During the September 26, 2023 CAC meeting, Ald. Makhlouf's memo and staff's response (Attachment B) were discussed. Ultimately the CAC, and Common Council, voted to send the item to Plan Commission. The purpose of this memo is to propose a Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment prepared by City staff based on information presented in Ald. Makhlouf's memo, staff's memo, and discussion with CAC.
Staff Proposal:
Staff appreciates and shares Ald. Makhlouf's objective to ensure responsible development compatible with residential neighborhoods that enhance community character. City staff met with Ald. Makhlouf on three (3) occasions and had many informal conversations in an attempt to come to a consensus regarding the issues. Short of conducting a building height study, staff is forwarding a proposed ordinance that utilizes Ald. Makhlouf's proposed building height standards as a foundation in formulating a recommendation. Staff's proposed ordinance changes allow for the balance and flexibility needed to sustain the City's economic vitality, provide more certainty for impacted residents, increase the supply of market rate and affordable housing (2022 Housing Study prepared by SB Friedman, page 37), and comply with state law. In addition, the revi...
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