City Council Votes Unanimously to Consider Zoning Code Moratorium Ahead of New Ordinance

The Gallatin City Council has taken a significant step towards updating the city’s zoning regulations by unanimously voting to join a new settlement that will make the city eligible for additional funding. This decision, made during the council meeting on August 27, is part of a broader effort to modernize Gallatin's zoning code, which is currently undergoing a comprehensive update.

City Planner Mister Rose provided an update on the Zoning Code Update (ZOCO) project, revealing that the public review draft has been submitted to consultants for revisions. The final draft is expected to be ready for adoption by the planning commission and city council in the coming months. This update aims to replace the existing zoning districts with a new set that closely resembles current regulations, ensuring minimal disruption for property owners.

To facilitate this transition, the planning department has proposed a temporary moratorium on new rezoning requests until the new zoning code is adopted. This measure is intended to prevent conflicts between the old and new zoning regulations, which could complicate the approval process for developers. The proposed moratorium would last for nine months or until the new code is adopted, whichever comes first. This timeframe is designed to allow sufficient time for review and approval processes while minimizing potential delays for ongoing projects.

Council members expressed support for the moratorium, recognizing its importance in maintaining a streamlined transition to the new zoning code. They emphasized the need to avoid confusion and ensure that new applications align with the updated regulations. The moratorium will not affect development requests that do not require rezoning, nor will it impact applications already in progress.

As the city moves forward with these changes, residents can expect a more cohesive and modern zoning framework that reflects Gallatin's growth and development needs. The council's proactive approach aims to enhance the planning process and support the community's long-term goals.