In a recent government meeting, the board held a public hearing regarding a request from Mark Landerman to rezone Lot 9 of the Spirit Mountain Subdivision from single-family residential (R1) to medium-low density residential (R2). The lot, which spans 1.11 acres and currently houses a single-family home and a guest house, is being considered for rezoning primarily to facilitate short-term rental use, which is not permitted under the existing R1 zoning.

Mark Christianson, representing the city staff, explained that the planning and zoning board's role is to provide a recommendation to the city council, which will make the final decision on the rezoning. The staff report outlines the differences between R1 and R2 zoning standards, emphasizing that the proposed change would not increase the overall density of the area, as it does not allow for multifamily developments.

The board discussed the implications of allowing individual properties to request zoning changes, raising concerns about potential requests from neighboring properties for similar exemptions. Board member Catherine expressed skepticism about the precedent this could set, questioning whether it could lead to a proliferation of individual zoning changes within the neighborhood.

Christianson reassured the board that the request aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan and that the existing infrastructure is adequate to support the proposed R2 development. He noted that the property does not include any historic structures, and the character of the neighborhood would not be adversely affected by the change.

The public comment period was closed after no additional comments were made, and the board is expected to deliberate further before making a recommendation to the city council.