Commerce City plans public engagement for new land development code in May

In a pivotal study session on April 14, 2025, the Commerce City Council and Planning Commission laid the groundwork for significant updates to the city's land development code. The meeting, which extended beyond its scheduled time, highlighted the need for deeper collaboration between city officials and planning teams to ensure informed decision-making for the future of Commerce City.

Key discussions centered around the upcoming adoption of the 2024 International Building Code, which emphasizes energy efficiency and electrification. City officials acknowledged the importance of reviewing these new standards to align local regulations with broader trends in building practices. "We need to make sure that when this comes before us, we can make the best informed decision for the future of Commerce City," one council member stated, underscoring the urgency of the matter.

Looking ahead, the city plans to launch a public website to engage residents with the proposed land development code. A public draft will be available in May, followed by meetings on May 15 and May 22 to gather community input. The Planning Commission is also set to host an open house in June, with further joint sessions planned before a public hearing in August and a final adoption vote by the City Council in September.

The discussions also touched on the involvement of local water and utility districts in the planning process, emphasizing their critical role in shaping zoning regulations and addressing density issues. As the city moves forward, the emphasis on public engagement and collaboration with stakeholders will be crucial in crafting a development code that meets the needs of Commerce City’s growing community.