In a recent city council meeting, significant changes to the design review entitlement process were discussed, following the adoption of new municipal code amendments aimed at streamlining residential project approvals. The amendments, adopted on June 4, replace the outdated 1996 design guidelines with updated residential and mixed-use design review standards, aligning with recent state housing legislation that mandates the use of objective standards in project evaluations.

The council's decision to overhaul the design review process was driven by a desire to eliminate inefficiencies, particularly the \"loop around\" where final design approvals were granted after all other project entitlements. The new framework shifts the Design Review Commission's role from a decision-making authority to an advisory body, with the Planning Commission now holding the approval power for larger projects. This change aims to provide developers with greater certainty and flexibility while modernizing the design standards to accommodate new housing needs.

Objective standards, defined as criteria that are measurable and known to applicants prior to submission, will now guide the review of residential projects. These standards are derived from the new design guidelines and existing zoning codes, focusing on aspects such as height and setbacks. The council emphasized that while the Design Review Commission will still advise on projects, its recommendations will be considered by the Planning Commission, which retains the final decision-making authority.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of maintaining a public forum for residential projects, ensuring community input even as the review process becomes more streamlined. The council acknowledged the expertise of the Design Review Commission and expressed a commitment to valuing their recommendations in the planning process.

As the city prepares to implement these changes, the council anticipates that the new design review categories—ministerial, objective, and discretionary—will facilitate a more efficient approval process while still allowing for community engagement and expert input. The adjustments are expected to take effect in October, marking a significant shift in how residential projects are reviewed and approved in the city.