City Council establishes new commercial districts around Lake Compaska

The Watertown City Council meeting on April 7, 2025, focused on the establishment of new zoning districts aimed at enhancing development around Lake Compaska. The council discussed the creation of three new districts while retaining one existing Commercial Lake (CL) district due to the presence of three properties currently zoned as CL.

The proposed zoning changes are specifically designed to accommodate mixed-use developments at Lake Compaska. The council clarified that the original CL district, which included Lake Pelican, will not be expanded to that area due to differing development patterns. The new districts include the Lake Commercial (CL1) and Lake Proximity Commercial (CL2) districts, along with a Lake Commercial Overlay District (CLX).

The overlay district is intended to allow for more intrusive commercial uses, such as bars, taverns, and hotels, but these will only be permitted in conjunction with the CL1 and CL2 districts. This approach aims to balance commercial opportunities with the predominantly residential nature of the area, which is currently 94% developed as residential.

The council's decision reflects a strategic effort to promote responsible development while preserving the character of the lakefront community. Further discussions and approvals will be necessary as the council moves forward with these zoning changes.