Planning Commissioner raises concerns over form based zoning's divisiveness in The Valley

During the recent Ogden Valley Planning Commission meeting held on May 21, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding the implementation of form-based zoning in Weber County, Utah. The discussion highlighted the divisive nature of this zoning approach, which has sparked anxiety among residents about potential changes in their communities.

One planning commissioner expressed strong reservations about form-based zoning, arguing that it creates uncertainty for residents. The commissioner noted that while traditional zoning allows for clear expectations about what can be built in specific areas, form-based zoning lacks this clarity. This ambiguity, they argued, leads to fears that "anything can happen" in areas designated under this system, which has contributed to a growing sense of unease among community members.

The commissioner linked these concerns to broader issues, including discussions about potential incorporation efforts that could result in significantly higher property taxes. They suggested that the anxiety surrounding form-based zoning might be driving residents to consider incorporation as a means of gaining more control over local development.

The conversation also touched on the specific application of form-based zoning in areas like Nordic, a small ski resort. While the commissioner acknowledged that form-based zoning could work in limited contexts, they expressed concern about its broader application across the valley, suggesting that it could lead to unwanted developments without adequate public input.

The meeting underscored the need for the county to reassess its approach to form-based zoning, as the current system appears to be causing significant community division and concern. As discussions continue, the planning commission may need to consider how to balance development needs with the desires of residents for transparency and involvement in local planning decisions.