Mill Creek planning staff propose new residential zoning and design standards

In the heart of Millcreek, city planners gathered on February 19, 2025, to discuss pivotal changes to the city's zoning regulations, aiming to balance growth with community character. The meeting, marked by a collaborative spirit, focused on refining residential zones and enhancing design standards to promote a more cohesive urban landscape.

One of the key topics was the medium-density residential zone, which includes triplexes and fourplexes. Initially proposed to merge with the residential multifamily (RM) zone, it has now been established as a standalone zone. City staff recommended incorporating residential design standards to ensure that these multi-family units maintain a similar aesthetic to single-family homes. This approach is part of a broader strategy to encourage "gentle density" along major corridors, transitioning from commercial to residential uses without overwhelming existing neighborhoods.

The planning commission also addressed the residential mix zone, where the threshold for permitted use approval was reduced to 25 units. This decision was met with mixed reactions; while most community councils supported the change, the Mill Creek Union Council advocated for a lower limit of 12 units, citing concerns about the impact of smaller projects on neighborhood dynamics.

In addition to residential discussions, the meeting touched on updates to the mobile home and tiny home zones, where home businesses were added, and short-term rentals were removed. The mixed development zone saw the introduction of new design standards, ensuring that townhome projects meet modern expectations for aesthetics and functionality.

The planning commission also reviewed legacy zones, such as the Mill Creek Gardens site, which will retain its status while updating its use categories to align with contemporary standards. The neighborhood commercial zone was separated from the commercial zone, with new design standards introduced to enhance its integration into the community.

As the meeting progressed, the conversation shifted to the city center overlay zone, where adjustments to height regulations and setback requirements were proposed to better accommodate urban development while respecting residential boundaries.

With these discussions, Millcreek's planning commission is taking significant steps toward shaping a future that honors the city's character while embracing necessary growth. As the community awaits the final decisions, the balance between development and preservation remains a central theme in Millcreek's evolving landscape.